Police probe officer accused of taking $10K bribe

An internal investigation has been launched following allegations that a police officer accepted a $10,000 bribe from a suspect facing murder and other serious charges.

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu confirmed that the matter was under investigation after screenshots of messages—allegedly between the officer and the suspect—surfaced and were obtained by this masthead.

The messages showed the suspect accusing the officer of failing to deliver on an alleged deal after receiving the money.

The tone escalated into swearing as the suspect appeared increasingly frustrated.

In response on Friday, Mr Tudravu stressed that the Fiji Police Force would not tolerate officers using their position for personal gain.

“I want to reassure members of the public that we will win back their trust by upholding the integrity of policing and ensuring those with personal agendas of profiting from policing be removed in accordance with internal disciplinary processes,” he said.

He added that officers had already received sufficient warnings and that the Force remained committed to rebuilding public confidence.

“Any allegation made against the conduct of an officer will surely tarnish the credibility of the organisation,” Mr Tudravu said.

“I want to reaffirm that there is an overwhelming majority of police officers who are committed to change the negative perception of the organisation by working diligently and honestly in the execution of their duties.”

The officer at the centre of the allegation has denied any wrongdoing.

He dismissed the claim, saying: “I wish I had access to $10,000,” and laughed off the accusation.

He insisted that he never received any money.

This masthead understands that the officer has served in the Police Drugs Unit for an extended period.