Officers accountable for their own actions: Commissioner

As the Fiji Police Force faces growing scrutiny over police officers linked to criminal investigations and allegations of misconduct, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says responsibility ultimately rests with the individual officer and not the institution.

Speaking after the passing-out parade of 150 new recruits at Nasova Grounds on Friday, Commissioner Tudravu was asked why some police officers continue to find themselves before the courts despite undergoing extensive training and being entrusted with enforcing the law.

He rejected suggestions that inadequate training or a lack of guidance was contributing to the problem.

“Everything depends on the individual,” Commissioner Tudravu said.

“The institution has done its part on training people. Guidance is given every day, the lectures are done, we have our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and we have our Force Standing Orders (FSO).”

His comments come at a time when a number of police officers are under investigation or facing allegations involving serious criminal offences, raising concerns about integrity and accountability within the force.

Commissioner Tudravu said the Fiji Police Force continued to place strong emphasis on ethics, discipline and professionalism throughout an officer's career, from recruit training to operational duties.

“Officers are constantly reminded of the standards expected of them and the importance of maintaining public trust,” he said.

The Police Commissioner stressed that while the organisation could provide training, mentorship and clear guidelines, individual officers must be accountable for the decisions they make.

His remarks also follow recent calls for stronger internal oversight and greater accountability within the force as authorities continue efforts to combat drug trafficking and organised crime.

Commissioner Tudravu said the Fiji Police Force remained committed to upholding the law and ensuring that officers who breached it were dealt with through the appropriate disciplinary and legal processes.

“We have given them the training and the guidance, the decision to obey or break the law ultimately rests with the individual.”