Tudravu adamant in reviewing Counter Narcotics Bureau

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu yesterday confirmed that reviewing the Counter Narcotics Bureau will be discussed in his meeting with the Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua.

In his monthly press conference, Mr Tudravu said he would be meeting Mr Naivalurua soon.

The Counter Narcotics Bureau has come under the spotlight after one of its members was allegedly involved in a drug smuggling case at the Nadi International Airport last Friday.

"I am very much concerned I have directed that the constable be interdicted without salary," Commissioner Tudravu said.

"I came into the office when this unit was already established, the team was already there."

Mr Tudravu said the bureau had a mandate to carry out and was professional, but it needs reviewing.

Mr Tudravu said changing the narrative that had long been associated with the Force would not happen overnight, as lot of work would be needed to win back public confidence and trust.

"I ask that you trust the process, trust that we will hold officers accountable, trust that we have nothing to hide," he said.

"We also have nothing to gain from condoning unprofessional and corrupt practices as it only impacts community- police relations, and we need the support of the community."

As part of their submission for the 2025-2026 National Budget, the Fiji Police Force will request funding for reform and restructure that will look at increasing manpower and supporting enablers to assist their work.

"The demands on policing have meant the establishment of specialised operational and investigative task forces, and the push and pull of resources," Mr Tudravu said.

Meanwhile, the month of April saw a decrease in overall crime by 20 per cent compared to the same period last year.

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