FWCC alleges police culture protects abusive officers; Police say complaints are investigated

Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) coordinator Shamima Ali alleges that a culture exists within the Fiji Police Force protects officers accused of domestic violence and fails to adequately support female victims, including police officers and police spouses.

Ms Ali made the claims while raising concerns about what she described as institutional cover-ups, missing case files and unresolved allegations of sexual harassment within the force.

“There is definitely a culture of protecting perpetrators within the police force, particularly if the perpetrator is from the police force,” she claimed.

Ms Ali alleged that female survivors within the force often do not receive the support they need, while male perpetrators benefit from cover-ups and mishandling of cases.

She also claimed that files have repeatedly gone missing in what she described as a “very, very deliberate” process.

“He’s (perpetrator) still working, all the evidence is there, and it takes so long to charge them that they think people forget. But people don’t forget, especially if they come to the Crisis Centre. We don’t forget,” she said.

In response, FPF maintained any complaint regarding police officer’s conduct will be investigated.

“When official reports are received of police officers failing to conduct their duties the matter will be investigated by the Internal Affairs Department. The issue of no drop policy on domestic violence cases is taught from the recruitment level and across the divisions, during lectures,” the police response said.

Ms Ali also alleged that sexual harassment within the police force has not been adequately addressed, despite allegations involving senior officers over the years.

“These people are walking around free. They’re getting promoted; in front of our eyes they get promoted,” she claimed.

In contrast, Ms Ali alleged that women who report such incidents often leave the force.

She said the FWCC has spent more than two years attempting to have a male police officer charged for allegedly handcuffing and assaulting his wife.

She claimed that despite three changes in command at the relevant police station, and repeated assurances that an arrest would be made, the officer remains employed and has not been suspended.