The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have launched a training program in Suva this week aimed at improving investigative and prosecutorial capabilities to combat the rising crime rate in the country. The program commenced on Monday at Suvavou House, bringing together police investigators, staff from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (FRCS), and prosecutors from the ODPP.
Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci emphasized that the training is intended to assist participants in understanding information gathering and litigation under the Proceeds of Crimes Act.
The training consists of two sessions. AFP Senior Liaison Officer Detective Superintendent Adrian Morton remarked that this specialized training will equip Fijian investigators and prosecutors with effective tools to address money laundering and asset confiscation. He stated, “The AFP has embraced the philosophy that following money and taking assets will reduce the ability of crime syndicates to profit from their actions.” Superintendent Morton expressed hope that the workshops will enhance cooperation among agencies to improve the forfeiture of assets from those profiting from crime in Fiji.
Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva noted the necessity of building capacity to improve skills aimed at controlling the growing crime rate.