‘King Khan’ drug case revived after police officers explain court absence

Two Fiji Police Force officers who failed to appear in court over an unlawful possession of illicit drugs case involving Imran Khan have had their bench warrants cancelled after they presented themselves before the Nasinu Magistrates Court today.

The officers explained their absence to the court, and the Resident Magistrate accepted their explanations before cancelling the warrants.

The court also directed the State to recharge Khan as soon as possible.

However, a bench warrant issued for a civilian Police staff member remains active until she is produced before the court.

The development follows the earlier discharge of Khan after Police witnesses failed to appear, prompting criticism of the Fiji Police Force’s handling of the case.

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu accepted the criticism levelled at the organisation, saying internal disciplinary action would continue against those responsible.

He said officers who failed to carry out their lawful duties and showed a lack of respect for the court had undermined public confidence in the Police.

“The officers’ failure to discharge their lawful duties and the lack of respect for the court further erodes public trust, harming efforts to rebuild trust and confidence between Police and the public,” Commissioner Tudravu said.

He said the Internal Affairs Unit would continue to pursue disciplinary measures to ensure officers were held accountable.

Commissioner Tudravu said the Fiji Police Force was also addressing shortcomings in service delivery through ongoing training and lectures, while strengthening internal accountability mechanisms to improve conduct and respond to complaints from the public.