The Fiji Police Force, in the 2019/2020 National Budget, has been allocated $720,000 towards the purchase of four new intercept boats to strengthen their presence on our seas.

Attorney General and Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum in his address on Friday, June 7 said: “The recent budget sets out a series of critical measures that ensures Fiji Police Force are properly trained and equipped to deliver a world class duty of care to Fijians in cities, towns, and the most rural and maritime communities.”

“Every Fijian deserves to hold absolute confidence that they are safe, their families are safe, and – if they ever do face a threat – the Fiji Police Force is committed and capable of translating their concerns into prioritised action,” he said.

Acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said they were grateful to the Fijian Government for the budget allocation and especially for the four new intercept boats that will help them during major operations out at sea.

“The Fiji Police Force has a vast maritime area to police and the announcement of the provision of more maritime capabilities is truly appreciated giving us increased mobility not only to patrol but to deploy officers during major operations,” ACP Tudravu said

“Recently we have been focusing on our drug operations out in maritime islands based on information gathered and while we cannot divulge our strategies, we can say that by boosting our maritime capabilities we are sure to improve our ability to address drug trafficking via sea,” he said.

Mr Tudravu said they enjoyed a strong relationship with the Fijian Navy and hope to continue the relationship of learning from them in regards to maritime surveillance and operations.

“We have a great working relationship with the Fiji Navy as they also assist with surveillance and patrols.

“We have deployed teams to maritime islands through their assistance as they have the professional expertise in maritime operations.”