Police training on customer service delivery timely, needed

The simultaneous training in all divisions by Police yesterday was necessary and timely. Acting Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu says the training is aimed at improving officers’ skills and attitude towards customer service delivery.

This is after numerous complaints were received from members of the public against officers.

Mr Tudravu says they have received a lot of negative comments on social media and in the mainstream media, that Police conduct is not in line with the process or the policy of the Force.

He defines the role of a Police officer well when he says, “an officer is to serve people with respect, dignity, humility and respecting people because it is a necessity.”

The officers’ attitude must change. Sometimes people get the impression that some officers are above the law by the way they act.

The officers in question are rude and insensitive. They must understand that the taxpayers of this country pay their salaries to protect them from harm and danger.

It is obvious from what we read on social media and the mainstream media that some officers think they can operate with impunity. They cannot as we are seeing in the monthly crime statistics compiled by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The frontline service no doubt needs an upgrade. There are still claims of poor service at the reception at some Police stations/posts with regard to the handling of complaints and continuity in investigations.

This is also linked to slow response time after a complaint is lodged. Despite the provision of more manpower and vehicles, there are still complaints of Police not being able to attend to cases because of the shortage of vehicles.

Missing court exhibits are also troubling the Police and Mr Tudravu.

Last but not least, is the issue of alleged Police brutality. While human rights training has been conducted for the Police and the number of cases has dropped significantly, there are still complaints.

That is the reason why this latest training is useful because it reinforces what has been previously taught.

People look to the Police for safety and guidance. When the law enforcement officers fail to fulfil their responsibilities, they dent the people’s confidence. They also jeopardise their partnership with members of the public in the battle against crime.

In many cases, public co-operation plays a crucial role in Police investigations. When Police officers are responsive to public concerns, they will get the support they require to be effective in their job.