Naivalurua Challenges Senior Police Officers

Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua yesterday challenged senior officers of the Fiji Police Force to prove their critics wrong by delivering their mandate to the people whilst upholding the law.

He made the statement during his first official visit at the Fiji Police Force heaquarters in Nasinu.

Mr Naivalurua was welcomed by senior officers who congratulated him for his recent appointment.

He was one of the seven independent Members of Parliament of the now deregistered FijiFirst Party that was sworn in last Friday to be either a Minister or an Assistant Minister.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci congratulated Mr Naivalurua on his recent appointment stating that it was the first time one minister was particularly tasked to look after the Police force and its operations.

“This is history in the making as we now have our first ever Minister for Policing,” said DCP Raikaci.

Mr Naivalurua said he was emotional while walking into the office he once roamed as the Commissioner of Police.

“It’s too early to say anything but I am looking forward into collaborating further with you in order to win back the hearts of the people we serve,” Mr Naivalurua said.

The former Commissioner of Police reminded the FPF leadership not to worry much about negative comments but continue to come in despite the good work done.

“I wish to see and improve operational effectiveness of Fiji Police Force with what we have right now.

“Don’t worry about criticisms so let’s prove them wrong by our actions where results are seen.’’

Prime Minister

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who appointed Mr Naivalurua to the role, expressed confidence in his ability to address crime and improve law and order in Fiji.

“Mr Naivalurua is no stranger to the Fiji Police Force, having previously served as Commissioner for Police. He is a distinguished military officer, retiring at the rank of Brigadier-General and also a career diplomat having served as our ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, as well as Ambassador-At-Large,” the Prime Minister stated.

“I am confident that he will work with the Acting Commissioner and the new incoming Commissioner, to reduce violent crime and improve law and order.”

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj