STATEMENT ON THE APPOINTMENT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF THE FIJI POLICE FORCE
The Fijian Government announces the appointment of Mr Ben Groenewald to the position of Commissioner of the Fiji Police Force.
The decision to appoint Mr Groenewald is line with the 2013 Constitution and in accordance with the appointment process by the Constitutional Offices Commission.
A South Africa national, Mr Groenewald has served extensively in South Africa’s Defence and Security forces. He served 42 years in the South African Police Service and retired in 2010 at the rank of Major-General. He was also the commanding officer of the South African police academy. As a senior police officer, he has also been responsible as the head of the security and safety of former Presidents of South Africa and has overseen the security detail of various global events, such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has welcomed the appointment saying Mr Groenewald brings with him a level of experience and professionalism that will serve the Fijian people well.
“The Fijian Government is confident that Mr Groenewald’s track record will strengthen the work undertaken by the Fiji Police Force”.
The new police commissioner will begin work on the 14th of May, 2014.
MINFO