A call for reform

THE revelation that methamphetamine kept as evidence at the Totogo Police Station in Suva was allegedly tampered with is quite serious. In fact it is nothing short of alarming.

This incident represents a breach of public trust and raises serious questions about the integrity of processes at the station.

However, Mr Fong Chew’s assurance that such reports are taken seriously is a necessary first step. His statement needs to be followed by concrete actions though.

There must be a thorough and transparent investigation.

If officers are found to be involved, swift and decisive action must be taken.

Their removal from the force, as Mr Fong Chew stated, is crucial, but further legal consequences should also be pursued to deter future misconduct.

In saying that, Attorney-General Siromi Turaga’s acknowledgment on Monday in Suva, of inadequate exhibit facilities in police stations highlights a vulnerability that needs immediate attention.

The state-of-the-art Nadi Police Station building offers a positive example, he noted, and such standards should be implemented across the country.

When questioned about drug trials being impacted by missing exhibits, Mr Turaga said he was aware that some police stations in the country were lacking proper facilities to house exhibits.

“Having been a magistrate, there is no police station around the country that has proper exhibit rooms, I can tell you that for a fact,” Mr Turaga said.

He commended the police station in Nadi, which he said was much better than other stations.

In the face of the allegations though, we need robust internal mechanisms within the police force to detect and prevent future misconduct.

It is a concern that the head of our Police Force has raised this issue. It shouldn’t be a reflection of the force though. There are men and women who place great value on their roles as law enforcement officers. They continue to serve the nation with integrity and great passion. Such men and women are leading by example every day.

As we reflect on the comments by Mr Fong Chew, we say fostering trust and cooperation between the police and the community is vital. We need to continue to encourage public support for law enforcement.

The alleged tampering is a stain on our legal system. So, while holding people accountable is important, we must address any systemic weaknesses that allowed this to happen.

Mr Fong Chew is clear about the need to remove anyone found to be colluding or aiding “those in the illicit trade”.

We say there must be a commitment to transparency and integrity, to build on public trust in institutions that uphold the law.