Concern over Fiji military movements into policing

16:03 pm on 9 October 2017

The announcement that Fiji's military is set to assume policing functions is a concerning development for some observers. 

The military commander, Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto, last week said a task force was being formed where the military would provide a quick response to robberies and other crimes. 

Massey University's Anna Powles says the military stepping up to police duties is not new, but it is a blurring of the distinction between the police and military, which has had a checkered past in Fiji.

Dr Powles told Jamie Tahana it also will not do anything to address the problems in the police force that require the support. 

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Photo: Massey University