Police rebuts bribery claims, calls for public accountability on social media

Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga has urged the public to act responsibly when posting on social media, calling on people to verify facts and refrain from making baseless allegations against police officers.

His comments come as the Fiji Police Force moved to debunk viral claims of corruption, bribery and interference linked to a serious motor vehicle accident on Rewa Street, Suva, on the morning of December 12.

In the days following the collision, which left one victim hospitalised, rumours circulated alleging the suspect was released without charge due to bribery.

Acting Commissioner Lutunauga dismissed the allegations as baseless, saying the suspect was released on medical grounds while police awaited an official medical report required before charges could be laid.

He said there was no collusion or corruption involved, adding that the delay was beyond police control and that investigations continued.

Police received the required medical documentation earlier this week, allowing the investigation to progress. The suspect was subsequently charged and produced in the Magistrates Court last Friday, where bail was granted. He is scheduled to reappear in court on February 23, 2026.

“It is easy to make assumptions based on hearsay,” Acting Commissioner Lutunauga said.

“The allegations made against the organisation hold no merit. We urge members of the public to seek factual information through proper channels before posting on social media.”

Police said they continue to monitor the victim’s condition and remain committed to a transparent legal process.