Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says all security agencies must operate within the law following allegations that soldiers interfered in a police matter involving a suspect in custody.

The comments come after Suva lawyer Simione Valenitabua alleged that five soldiers roughed up his client while he was being held at a police station.

Questioned by Fiji One News about concerns over military involvement, Rabuka says the issue should first be addressed through the proper military chain of command.

The Prime Minister suggested the alleged incident may have occurred at a lower operational level rather than being directed by senior leadership.

“My own assessment is that it’s probably soldier-level control,” he said.

Rabuka stressed that all agencies involved in security operations must remain lawful in their conduct.

“We emphasise the fact that everyone must act within the law.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua says the Constitution must always be respected by every state institution, including the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

Tikoduadua said it would not be appropriate to comment on specific details while investigations or internal processes may still be underway.

“What I can say is that the Constitution must always be respected by every institution of the State, including the Republic of Fiji Military Forces,” he said.

He reiterated that the military’s role is clearly defined under Fiji’s constitutional and legal framework.

“Where the RFMF supports national security or law enforcement efforts, that support must be lawful, disciplined, and subject to civilian authority.”

Tikoduadua also warned that efforts to combat drugs and organised crime must not override constitutional protections.

“The fight against drugs and organised crime is important, but it must never come at the expense of the Constitution or the rule of law,” he said.