The Fiji Police Force recorded a 49 per cent increase in complaints against its officers in the first quarter of this year.

Speaking to officers at their first quarter parade this morning, Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Iowane Naivalurua said his major concern is in the area of complaints against police and complaints against their service.

Brig-Gen Naivalurua said complaints against police means that officers have failed to conduct themselves properly and did things that they should not have done.

He said some have failed to complete reports, while others showed dishonesty in their investigations. Some others may not have provided feedback in a timely manner to those who complained.

He said there is more work to be done in providing services and working honestly each day.

The first quarter saw a reduction in reported crimes against women by 52 per cent and a reduction in reported crimes against children by 24 per cent.

More than 600 police officers were present at the parade.

By Mereani Gonedua