Police officers have been warned that the badges they wear are not decorations nor are they a free pass to operate beyond the scope of the law.

Speaking at the opening of the new Valelevu Police station today, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama revealed that complaints brought to his attention include corruption and other violations of the law.

While highlighting the government’s effort to modernize the Fiji Police Force, the Prime Minister reminded the officers to step up to their role of upholding the law.

 “As officers of the law, you are the shield that guards our people from those grave dangers to their safety and security. You can’t fulfil that duty while sitting behind a desk or behind the wheel of a lorry. You need to be in the communities you are tasked to protect. You need to know those communities. You need to understand how communities operate at the grassroots level. You need to be seen walking the streets, not speeding down on them in your cars.”

Bainimarama says he will not tolerate selective justice or abuse of authority and officers will be prosecuted and punished if they use their power to break their social contract.

He says officers should be mindful of the important role they play in the communities.

Government is embarking on building a new Fiji Police Force on the back of unprecedented investment in officers and set new expectations for the level of service delivered to the public.