Armoury breach attempt exposes system strength

The attempted breach of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Armoury over the past few weeks proved that the military’s electronic security systems are working.

This was highlighted by Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua in Parliament yesterday adding that while investigations into the incident are ongoing, the attempt exposed something useful.

“One good thing about this incident, it actually tested the effectiveness of the electronic systems that were there,” he said.

“And that’s the very reason why they were there, the systems are there, because people do want to attempt to do that.”

Mr Tikoduaduda was responding to questions from Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar, who asked whether the armoury breach had been anticipated under Fiji’s National Security Strategy, and what protocols were activated in response.

Mr Tikoduadua said he could not comment on the specifics of the attempt while investigations continue, but confirmed the National Security Strategy which was endorsed and launched in 2025 covers threats of this nature.

An armoury is a secure facility where military weapons and ammunition are stored. Any unauthorised attempt to access it is considered a serious national security threat.

“Breaches of the armoury or the magazines, or any attempt to do so, is a serious offence and would be repelled at any cost,” the minister warned.

Mr Tikoduadua also linked the incident to the country’s growing drug problem, saying the hybrid military-police model being discussed under the new RFMF Act would help Fiji respond faster to serious threats, including narcotics, without the legal delays that currently slow down military involvement.

He said new legislation would allow the military and police to work jointly with clear roles and legal backing