Investigations continue into alleged police involvement in viber messages

The Fiji Police Force has completed the first phase of its investigation into the verification of alleged Viber messages involving police officers in the illicit drug trade.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime (ACP/C) Mesake Waqa confirmed that the initial phase focused on the digital forensic examination of mobile phones belonging to officers implicated in the matter.

Mr Waqa said the analysis was carried out using internationally recognised mobile forensic tools, with support from foreign law enforcement partners.

He said this is to ensure that the processes met global standards of accuracy and integrity.

“The first phase involved the digital analysis of the mobile phones of the implicated officers,” ACP Waqa said.

“This was done using internationally recognised mobile forensic tools with the support of our foreign law enforcement partners.”

ACP Waqa said investigators have now moved into the second phase of the inquiry, which will involve further enquiries with financial institutions and service providers to establish the full scope of the allegations.

Addressing concerns raised about delays in obtaining a statement from an overseas witness, ACP Waqa clarified that the delay was not deliberate but due to strict jurisdictional requirements.

“There are jurisdictional compliance matters that must be adhered to before a Fijian Police officer can be sent to Australia,” he said.

He confirmed that a proposed timeline has been set, with plans for the overseas component of the investigation to take place in the first week of January 2026.

ACP Waqa said continuous liaison is ongoing between the Commissioners of the Fiji Police Force and the Australian Federal Police to ensure cooperation and compliance with legal procedures.

“This investigation is multifaceted and involves various local and international agencies,” he said.

He reaffirmed Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu’s commitment to a thorough, independent and transparent investigation.

“The only way forward is to establish the truth to the allegations made,” ACP Waqa said.

Police have acknowledged the strong public interest in the case, noting that maintaining public trust in the Force remains a priority.

While no timeline has been given for the completion of the investigation, police have assured the public that updates will be provided as enquiries progress, stressing that due process and accountability will guide every stage of the probe.

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