Respect rights during joint drug operations: FCOSS

As joint drug operations escalate across the country, the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has reminded the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) that they must respect the rights of ordinary Fijians.

FCOSS national president Sepesa Rasili said because no State of Emergency had been declared, the full protection of fundamental rights remained in force.

This means that Fijians cannot have their rights set aside, even during snap checkpoints and search operations.

“The Constitution’s provisions for the limitation of rights are specific and narrow,” Mr Rasili said.

“We expect due process to be the only path forward.”

A State of Emergency is a formal legal declaration that temporarily allows the government to restrict certain rights, such as freedom of movement to deal with a crisis.

Without one, standard constitutional protections apply.

The Fiji Police Force announced on Friday that joint operations with the RFMF would escalate, with snap checkpoints, search operations, and surge operations expected around the country.

The move follows an agreement between Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu and RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai reached in January this year.

The operations aim to dismantle criminal networks linked to the drug trade, with an investigation team in place to ensure due process is followed.

FCOSS acknowledged the seriousness of the drug problem but stressed that enforcement must stay within legal boundaries.

“FCOSS maintains that all state institutions, including the RFMF and the Fiji Police Force, must operate strictly within the Rule of Law,” Mr Rasili said.

Members of the public with information on drug activity can call the toll-free number 1681.