Police assure protection for whistleblowers with credible information

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has assured members of the public that individuals who come forward with credible information, will be provided with the necessary security and protection.

Speaking in response to concerns about fear and intimidation among potential whistle blowers, Mr Tudravu said it was the obligation of the Fiji Police Force to ensure the safety of witnesses who believe their lives may be at risk.

“If the public comes forward with evidence and your life is under threat, let us know,” Mr Tudravu said.

“This is our obligation. If we want investigations to be done, whether against police officers or anyone else, we need people to bring forward evidence.”

Mr Tudravu said he welcomed the increasing number of people now speaking up, adding that under his leadership the organisation had taken allegations and complaints “positively” and treated them as part of account ability and reform.

However, he cautioned against generalising misconduct across the entire organisation, saying it was unfair to “paint the whole Fiji Police Force with one brush.”

“The problem is that some people are discrediting police officers and pointing at the whole organisation without recognising the work we have done from the beginning until now,” he said.

“There is no police organisa tion in the world that is completely clean, but it is our job as leaders to correct issues and bring officers back in line.”

Mr Tudravu encouraged members of the public to step for ward if they have credible information.