Editorial: Fiji needs a clean, accountable Police Force
The death of Constable Peniasi Racagi and concerns over alleged police misconduct underline the need for transparent investigations and stronger accountability.
Saturday 10 October 2026 | 08:00
Updated 12 October 2026 | 14:56 FJT
A clean, accountable and uncompromised Fiji Police Force is needed for a safe and secure Fiji.
Recent incidents have raised serious questions about policing standards, law enforcement, judicial system and Government’s responsibility to protect its people.
The death of Constable Peniasi Racagi, 24, on February 21 this year, in Lami, demands thorough, transparent and quick investigation.
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The alleged involvement of Police officers is disturbing. They swore upon recruitment to uphold the law – now they allegedly have blood on their hands while wearing the uniform they swore to uphold, and protect at all times. No uniform should shield anyone from accountability.
Where is the oath sworn to Salus Populi — the welfare of the people? The Police oath must mean more than employment and a salary. It demands honour, discipline, integrity and an unwavering duty to serve and protect Fiji and its people.
Government must change laws to scare away serious crime, drug trafficking and corruption. Reports of missing drugs from police exhibits raise questions about evidence security, internal controls and institutional failures.
Any wrongdoing must be investigated, and those re-sponsible brought to justice.
Police recruitment standards should be reviewed. Genuine commitment to public service must be priority over ‘whom you know’ and sporting ability. Mil-lions of dollars allocated annually must be used well for effective policing, professional conduct and safer communities.
Fiji’s cold cases is a reminder of the need for ac-countability and efficient Police investigation.
Cases including those of Salesh Chand, Holland Seeto and Russian couple Yuri and Natalia Shipulin remained unsolved for ages because of compromise and slow probe.
As Fiji reviews its Constitution, lawmakers and Government should consider very strict rules against crime.
A clean Fiji Police Force is a national need. Public trust must be earned through integrity, transparency and justice. Only then can Fiji truly be safe.
