ODPP finds insufficient evidence to charge 11 cops

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has found there is insufficient evidence to charge 11 police officers over allegations of corruption and illicit drug-related discussions contained in a series of Facebook posts.

The ODPP confirmed it had completed its legal assessment of 11 police investigation files referred by the Fiji Police Force following allegations arising from Facebook posts that contained screenshots of Viber messages.

The complaint alleged the officers had received corrupt benefits or bribes and engaged in discussions relating to illicit drug activities.

Following a review of the available evidence, the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions determined there was currently insufficient evidence to institute criminal charges against any of the 11 officers.

The ODPP has returned the investigation files to the Fiji Police Force with recommendations for further investigations and additional matters for police to consider.

The office said it would conduct a further review if additional investigations produced new or sufficient evidence establishing or supporting the commission of a criminal offence.