Drug test for command

The Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew and members of the inner core have undergone drug tests taking the lead role in advocating for a clean and drug free organisation.

The Acting Commissioner said while a new drug testing policy will soon be introduced, it was important for the Fiji Police Force leadership to take the lead role in changing public perception towards the involvement of police officers in drug related activities.

“We are in the process of finalising a mandatory drug policy, done in consultation with the Solicitor General’s Office in accordance with Fiji’s laws.”

“While we await the final policy, members of the inner core which include the Acting Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners of Police will undergo drug testing so as to clear the senior hierarchy, as well as members of the Command group consisting of Directors and senior officers.”

The Acting Commissioner said the new policy will also adopt best practices applied by international law enforcement agencies.

“We recognise that the lack of trust in policing stems from a number of issues, one of which is the involvement of police officers in drug related activities.

We want a clean and drug-free institution, free from officers who use drugs or any corrupt practices linked to drugs.”

The Acting Commissioner of Police said the mandatory drug testing policy is one of the many steps taken in ensuring a drug-free organisation, as there was no room for any gross misconduct of duties or breach of professional standards when it comes to the policing of drugs.

He adds all policies to be introduced will be carefully reviewed and drawn up in consultation with the Solicitor General’s Office.