AP: Maybe back in the 80s, that behaviour was overlooked, but we’ve moved on. The Vanuatu Government has ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and other human rights conventions. Today, the answer is simple: No, the police have no right to use excessive force or harm anyone. If police officers are assaulting civilians, that’s a clear violation of the law.

JC: But what about situations where the police need to keep the peace? Don’t they have the right to intervene physically?

AP: It’s still wrong. The police are not allowed to use force—whether with batons, hands, or even words—to cause harm. When someone is already in conflict, the police’s role is to calm the situation and protect everyone involved, not escalate it. If there’s a weapon involved, then yes, the police can protect themselves. But in most cases, their duty is to protect, not attack.

JC: A few weeks ago, there was an incident where an officer allegedly assaulted a student found at Fatumaru Bay after curfew hours. What’s your take on that?

AP: That was entirely wrong. The officer should have handled it differently—by taking the student home safely, for example. There’s no justification for physical or verbal abuse. Even if the student broke the law by staying out late, the police have no authority to harm her. If she sought legal advice, I believe the case would be in her favour.

JC: What penalties do officers face for these actions?

AP: It depends on internal police procedures and the judiciary system. The police have their own internal disciplinary court to handle misconduct. However, some officers have been convicted and are serving time for their actions. Remember, the police are meant to be our friends, not our oppressors.

In 2023, three police officers were charged over an alleged case of police brutality in Mele, setting a poor example of what the police should stand for. It’s time for police officers to reflect on their actions and understand that their role is to protect, not harm.

JC: What can be done to prevent these incidents?

AP: The solution is simple: Mind Care. The frustration and burnout officers experience often lead to violent reactions. We need more mental health care programmes for police officers, not just physical training. If they don’t take care of their mental well-being, they’ll keep resorting to violence. I suggest that the Vanuatu Police Force work closely with Vila Central Hospital’s (VCH) mental health professionals to implement programmes that help officers manage stress better. It’s about protecting not only the public but also the officers’ well-being.

Ms Pakoa’s perspective sheds light on the ongoing need for mental health support in high-stress professions like policing.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST