Clear SOPs vital for Police-RFMF joint operations

Former Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Unaisi Vuniwaqa says any joint operation between the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) must be governed by clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Mrs Vuniwaqa warned that Fiji’s growing drug crisis requires coordinated action across Government agencies, stronger institutions and Police reform.

Ms Vuniwaqa, who is currently the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Safety and Security, said increasing Police salaries alone would not solve Fiji’s drug problem.

She said other Government agencies were equally important in tackling the issue.

“The entire civil service is just as important, including Border Control, Immigration, Health and Judiciary,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.

She called for a national taskforce at ministerial level to bring together key stakeholders and ensure accountability across enforcement, health, judicial and prevention efforts.

Ms Vuniwaqa said strengthening existing systems with nationwide reach may be more effective than relying on a small, centralised National Narcotics Bureau.

“Unless it serves primarily as a coordinating body, it will be difficult for the bureau to shoulder the enormous responsibility and expectations on its own,” she said.

On potential joint Police-RFMF operations, Ms Vuniwaqa said clear command structures, responsibilities and accountability mechanisms were essential.

She stressed that Police must remain the lead law enforcement agency in a democratic society.

“Military support should only be deployed in exceptional circumstances where Police capabilities are overwhelmed and additional resources required,” she said.

“The decision to call in the military should rest with the civilian leadership of Government, based on recommendations from the Police Commissioner and the Commander of the RFMF.

“Once the situation is under control, policing responsibilities should immediately revert to the Police.”

Ms Vuniwaqa also said Police reform should remain a priority, with attention focused not only on increasing officer numbers but also on ensuring personnel were properly equipped, resourced and trained.

“Recruitment and promotion processes, as well as internal audit and professional standards systems, need to be strengthened,” she said.

“Training curricula should be more practical and address operational safeguards, reputational risks, investigations and prosecutions.

“Changing organisational culture and mindset will take time, but it is a step in the right direction.”