Qiliho orders shutdown of bar

POLICE Commissioner Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho has ordered the shutdown of a bar operated by the Fiji Police Force and banned kava consumption at all police premises across the country.

He said the force had taken precautionary measures from when the coronavirus (COVID-19) first emerged out of China and this included heightened personal hygiene measures.

“We have officers stationed with the Ministry of Health team and we have been discussing COVID-19 and other issues in regards to our preparedness,” he said.

“We have taken measures internally as well, we have cut out any yaqona consumption — I have banned the consumption of yaqona in any police premises around the country.

“I have closed down the bar that we have as a precautionary measure as well.

“We have to look after our officers first and foremost in preparing them for the roles that they will have to undertake.

“We had to take actions in line with what has been directed by the Ministry of Health.

“I have to look after our police force so we are able to deliver the services when required.”

Brig-Gen Qiliho said police was working with the Health Ministry in terms of acquiring hazmat suits needed if officers have to handle suspected cases.

“We’ve had discussions with the Ministry of Health, there is a shortage of the hazmat suits around the world and with the resources, the Ministry of Health is getting, the police needs are incorporated into that.

“This came about from the meetings and discussions we have had on the need for officers to have police protection kits.”