The Standing committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense has reviewed and submitted the Police Force Annual Report 2016-2017 to parliament this morning.

Based on their review, Committee Chair Alex O’Connor says one of their main concern is the current location of the Police Headquarters in Suva.

He says this including other issues were identified and is now before the parliament.

“Many of these issues were witnessed by the Committee during the site visit on February 4th, 2019. The security of the current Police Headquarters is a concern and the committee believes it’s time for the Headquarters to be relocated to a more secure environment.”

At present, the force is unfairly perceived to be under-responsive based on the actions and inactions of officers when dealing with public complaints.

The Committee has recommended this can be corrected through an effective communicative strategy and robust leadership and better management of resources.

O’Connor adds they would also like to see technology-enhanced and professional police.

Additionally, police personnel welfare needs significant improvement and allowances must be paid where it’s due.

The Committee has, however, praised the role taken by the force in addressing SDG5 – Gender Equality.

“The Committee recognizes that the Police Force amongst the many organizations in Fiji has taken the lead role in addressing SDG 5 – Gender Equality at 20% of the Force. The Committee also commends the achievement of women police officers that have taken leadership roles in Fiji and abroad.”

The Committee Chair has also applauded the force for recognizing the significant impact of drug-related issues in our society.