News

First hour procedure to curb police brutality says PM

February 6, 2019 2:06 pm

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama opens the High-Level Regional Seminar on the UN Convention Against Torture in the Pacific [Source: Fijian Government]

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says Fiji is doing all it can to eliminate any chance of police brutality.

To do this, the Prime Minister notes that Fiji is currently piloting the first hour procedure project which was rolled out last year in a number of central police stations.

Speaking during the inauguration of the Convention Against Torture Initiative High Level Seminar in Sigatoka, Bainimarama told those present that this project ensures that suspects are provided with legal representatives within an hour of their arrest.

Article continues after advertisement

Bainimarama stressed to the participants from across the Pacific that this allows early access to justice.

“The review in the program has already seen a sharp decrease in allegations of Police brutality levelled against Officers, moreover police stations in Fiji are starting to record interviews of arrested or detained persons in addition to the counsel they are provided.”

The Prime Minister says Police Officers are also using video recordings during the interview process which protects suspects during this period.