(file image) Photo: rafaelbenari/123RF
The Fiji Police Force is investigating an officer's conduct after a video of him kissing a woman at work went viral, fueling claims of sexual harassment.
However, Internal Affairs officials have scrutinised the incident at Navua Police Station and ruled out sexual assault.
Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said an internal investigation into the officer's conduct would be done.
A police spokesperson told RNZ Pacific the investigation was necessary as the incident occurred "within police premises".
A source told RNZ Pacific the woman - who produced a signed statement denying any coercion - is an acquaintance of the officer.
"She has strongly refuted claims that she was a victim of sexual harassment, and at no point was coerced by the officer," Tudravu said.
Tudravu said uniformed officers needed to held accountable for their behaviour and disciplinary proceedings could follow.
However, the police spokesperson declined to say what the possible penalty could be.
"I can't pre-empt that," the spokesperson said.
Tudravu said it was important that all members of the police upheld the institution's ethics and values, to restore public trust and confidence.