RFMF will not protect its own, says Commander

Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) will not spare its own personnel if they are implicated in matters of illicit drugs.

RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai made the point amid allegations of security agencies involvement in moving illicit drugs around the country.

Two days ago, the Fiji Correction Service released a statement about a joint operation they had with the Fiji Police to carry out a thorough investigation of an officer involved in the movement of illicit drugs.

At present, police officers face charges of tampering with drug evidence and other offenses related to drugs.

The difference between RFMF, Fiji Police Force and the Fiji Correction Service had everything to do with the work environment, he said.

“FPF and FCS directly deals with drugs, engaging with drug peddlers and criminals who have records; we don’t,” Ro Jone said.

“That’s why we’re very careful about our involvement in such issues.

“We’re limiting our involvement as much as we can until we can prepare the relevant policies and legislations to assist us.”

Ro Jone said to ensure that drugs did not enter the premises, the basics began during the recruitment process.

Elimination of drug related suspects is carried out “automatically from the early stages,” he said.

“We also have surprise checks; we try to get the police involved with the canine search exercise.

“We’ve learnt alot from our experiences overseas and try to contain this issue, to stop it from influencing the organisation.

“If there is a need to report them to the police force, we give them to the police force.”

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