Commissioner of Police Qiliho Assures Polling Day Security
Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho has assured members of the public that it is absolutely safe to vote today.
He gave this positive declaration on security, with the intention to give confidence to voters to cast their ballot and make their votes count.
There had been rumours, fake news flying in regards to the security on Election Day.
Brigadier-General Qiliho said the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) were ready to provide extra security if the need arose. “At the moment we are working together in the exchange of information and intelligence and we are happy,” the Police Commissioner said.
“I understand and I know the standby strategy that they have put in place. If the need arises then I will call for their assistance.
“At the moment there is no need for them because the Fiji Police Force is satisfied with the way we positioned.
“We are confident that we will deliver that conducive environment for all Fijians to choose who they want in Government.”
Brigadier-General Qiliho said people should vote and make their votes count.
“I want to reiterate again that they should forget the rumours,” he said.
“We are well in control of the security situation here. So go out and vote for the Government that you want.
“We will be out there at the polling stations and we will provide you that conducive environment so you can enjoy going to cast your vote to make it count.” Meanwhile, in a statement Police Chief Operations Officer ACP Maretino Qiolevu issued a notice to drone operators.
He said Police would be strictly enforcing a ‘no fly zone’ around polling station, the counting centre and elections warehouse today. Operators are asked to refrain from flying drones within a vicinity of 500 metres from any polling station from 5am today to midnight tonight.
Prior approval must be sought from the Fijian Elections Office. ACP Qiolevu said failure to comply could find operators liable for prosecution and the confiscation of drones.