Police have confirmed they do not provide security at the High Court exhibit room once exhibits are formally handed over to the Judiciary, as investigations continue into the disappearance of cocaine from a drug exhibit.

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says the exhibit room has its own security arrangements, including CCTV surveillance, biometric access and standard operating procedures requiring anyone seeking access to the room to make a request through the Chief Registrar.

He says Police only enter the exhibit room when authorised through a court order or following a request from the Judiciary, with responsibility for the security and monitoring of exhibits resting with the Judiciary once they are handed over.

The ongoing investigation into the missing cocaine will establish the sequence of visits to the exhibit room, including when the CCTV and biometric systems stopped operating and how access to the room was gained.

Deputy Director CID Senior Superintendent Sakiusa Jitoko says from the Police side, drug exhibits are securely sealed with labels and signatures, while scientific officers are required to inspect the packages when they are presented in court to confirm there is no damage or tampering.

By: Litia Rabua