News
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Fiji braces for global oil shocks with proactive budget
Global tensions push oil prices into the spotlight, but Fiji is steering with measured, proactive policy to shield households and sustain growth. A preview of the 2025-26 budget and development plan hints at resilience amid global uncertainties.
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Fiji Court Delivers Firm Warning to Drug Traffickers
Fiji’s judiciary signals a tough stance on drug trafficking with a 12-month sentence handed to a man found with cannabis packaged for sale. The ruling serves as a stark reminder that such offenses carry serious consequences for individuals and the wider community.
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Fiji and Australia strengthen border security with advanced tech to curb drug smuggling
Fiji’s border service is teaming up with Australia’s border force to up the ante on drug-smuggling prevention with new training and advanced inspection tools. A peek into evolving trafficking tricks and smarter, tougher cargo checks promises a stronger shield for the nation’s trade routes.
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Fiji High Court Allows Rights Commission to Interview Murder Suspect
In Suva, a high court ruling opens the door for a human rights commission to evaluate the living conditions of a wheelchair-bound murder suspect, with a medical examination also ordered. As data and call-record questions linger, the case tests how due process and justice intertwine as the next hearing looms.
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Bail Granted in $275 Facebook Scam Case Sparks Online Fraud Alerts
An online sale turns sour as a Facebook transaction leads to deception charges and strict bail conditions. With two related cases pending, this story spotlights the growing risk of online scams and the need for vigilance in digital buying and selling.
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Fiji High Court Delivers 11-Year Sentence in Child-Rape Case
An 11-year prison term and a lengthy non-parole period await a 24-year-old man convicted of raping his 11-year-old cousin. The High Court judge highlighted the severity of the offences while emphasizing rehabilitation for a young first offender, signaling a justice approach that seeks both accountability and reform.
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Psychiatric Evaluation Delays Sundar Case in Suva High Court
Justice hinges on a pending psychiatric report in a high-profile Suva case. Doctors at St Giles Hospital need more consultations to determine the defendant’s fitness to plead, keeping the January 20 hearing on hold.
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Fiji ex-corrections chief misses pretrial, case timeline unsettled
A high-profile Fiji legal case takes another turn as former acting Fiji Corrections Service commissioner Sevuloni Naucukidi is reminded to be in court after missing a pretrial conference. His criminal intimidation case, tied to an alleged July incident, continues to unfold with a January 19 reappearance on the horizon.
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End-of-Holiday Dangers: Preventable Injuries in Children on the Rise
With the holidays drawing to a close, families are urged to stay extra vigilant after a rise in preventable injuries among children. A quick, practical guide highlights common home hazards and simple steps to keep kids safe during play and everyday activities.
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Fiji’s 22-Year-Old Nurse Graduate Sets Sights on Mental Health Care
At 22, Nedley Neha Nand graduates as a nurse, turning faith, family support, and community into a calling to heal. From a close-knit Fiji upbringing to plans to specialize in mental health, her journey is a powerful reminder that compassion can shape a brighter future.
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Nasinu Court Hears Housekeeper Charged in $4,000 EFTPOS Fraud
An alleged case of workplace fraud surfaces as a 53-year-old housekeeper faces charges of obtaining financial advantage by deception. Authorities say nearly 100 EFTPOS transactions were redirected to a personal account, totaling over $4,000. The case moves through the courts as investigators review the evidence.
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Fiji Faces Online Fraud Cases as Two Women Face Financial Deception Charges
Two separate cases of online financial deception are under investigation as authorities crack down on fraud. One involves unauthorized fund transfers through an EFTPOS system, while the other centers on a deceptive social-media sale. The incidents highlight the importance of vigilance and careful verification of online transactions.
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Fiji Methodist Church Bets on Fresh Youth Outreach for 2026
A bold new youth outreach from Fiji’s Methodist Church shifts from sermons to hands-on support for vulnerable young people, tackling alcohol issues and social pressures. Plans for 2026 emphasize grassroots relationships and cross-sector partnerships to meet today’s youth where they are.
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Raiwai Top Shop Robbery: Bail Hearing for Two Suspects
Two men charged with aggravated robbery in the Top Shop incident at Raiwai await a bail decision as their Suva hearing is adjourned to next Monday. Allegations include stealing nine dollars and a wristwatch from a 50-year-old man waiting for a bus. The case will resume later this month in court.
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Fiji Appoints New TSLS CEO to Boost Tertiary Education Access
Dr. Apisalome Movono steps in as TSLS CEO on January 2, 2025, signaling a new chapter for Fiji’s tertiary education. With a broad background in education leadership and policy reform, his appointment points to a renewed push for equitable access, innovation, and stronger governance.
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Navua Bridge Barricade Collapse Triggers Fiji Investigation
An FRA probe is underway after a barricade at Navua Bridge collapsed, with crews rushing to clear the site and restore traffic. Investigators are weighing whether the fall was caused by a structural fault or damage from an oversized vehicle breaching the height restriction. The 2024 safety barricade is central to the inquiry as officials…
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Sugar Tribunal Urges Quick Cane Harvest Ahead of Monday Crushing Shutdown
An urgent call from the Sugar Industry Tribunal puts cane growers on a tight clock as a Monday deadline looms and milling prepares to pause. With the season fast approaching its end, timing, teamwork, and maximum harvesting could shape the outcome for the sugar sector.
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Fiji Expands Professional Development for Teachers to Tackle Burnout
Fiji is rolling out expanded professional development to support teachers, tackling workload stress and burnout while strengthening classroom outcomes. The plan foregrounds teacher well-being and closer collaboration with students and parents for a brighter, more resilient school year.
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Two Suspects Remanded in Fiji for Attempted Robbery Ahead of Bail Hearing
Two defendants were remanded again as a bail hearing approaches in Nasinu Magistrates Court. Charged with attempted robbery, resisting arrest and refusing fingerprints, the case heads back to court in January. Security concerns and ongoing legal proceedings add tension to the arraignment.
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Fiji Navy Announces Expansion as New Officers Join the Ranks
Three midshipmen are commissioned as Fiji’s Navy marks milestones. The year-end parade honors long service and bids farewell to a valued partner, while the RFN unveils a bold 2025—prioritizing leadership, training, and a widening network of forward bases across the islands.
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Lautoka Conference Highlights Confidence in God’s Presence
A New Year’s Eve conference capped off a week of worship and fellowship with a powerful focus on confidence in God’s presence. Believers left inspired for the year ahead, carrying renewed faith and a strong sense of community.
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Lautoka Bus Station Upgrade On Track for January Completion
A $3 million upgrade to Lautoka’s bus station is nearing completion, with officials optimistic about a timely finish this month. The refreshed hub promises smoother commutes and better services for the Sugar City’s daily travelers.
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Australia backs Fiji’s CWM Hospital upgrades under Vuvale Partnership
Major hospital upgrades are underway in Fiji, signaling a multi-phase effort to modernize facilities and strengthen health services. The first phase targets roofing, ward improvements, and new amenities, with a major focus on water security and accessibility. A broader plan is on the horizon, promising continued enhancements for the healthcare system.
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From Loss to Lab: Medical Laboratory Science Graduate’s Resilient Final Year
Grief turned into grit in a standout medical laboratory science graduate’s year, transforming personal loss into professional determination. A heartfelt journey that honors family, resilience, and a hopeful path into the workforce.
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Is Rehabilitation Working for Sexual Offenders?
Questions linger about how effective rehabilitation really is for sexual offenders. With broader post-release support in place, experts warn that lasting change relies on the individual’s willingness to engage and take responsibility, as cases of reoffending after release continue to surface.
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600 Teachers Relocated as Education Shortage Prompts Temporary Fix
Urgent, temporary measures are reshaping classrooms as the education system tackles a persistent teacher shortage. Hundreds of newly trained teachers are on the horizon, but gaps in Mathematics and Computer Studies still challenge schools. Yet, encouraging exam results and a call for broad community support hint at a hopeful path forward.
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Rarawai Mill Crushing Season Ends as Tribunal Sets January 12, 2026 Deadline
An official decision marks the end of the 2025 crushing season at Rarawai Mill, with a tight deadline and coordinated efforts to wrap up cane deliveries. Stakeholders are rallying to ensure a smooth transition into the next season.
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Fiji PM Rabuka Moves Into Historic Official Residence
Fiji’s Prime Minister and his family are settling into the official residence long tied to the nation’s leadership. The move, steeped in history and symbolism, signals a new chapter for governance and public service. It reflects how place and duty intersect in the story of leadership.
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Central Division Police Arrest Suspect in Elderly Bank Card Theft Case
Police in the Central Division have detained a suspect in connection with the theft of an elderly man’s bank card and cash. Items believed to belong to the victim were found in the suspect’s possession as investigators gather witness statements. The case underscores ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable residents.
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Fiji Electricity Tariff Pause Fuels Debate on Public Input
Electricity tariffs are paused as a 21-day public consultation opens, with officials emphasizing transparency, independent oversight, and a data-driven review. The move invites broad community input, but questions linger about how final rates will affect households and businesses.