The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in Fiji organized a National Conference today at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Resort, focusing on emerging criminal trends in the country. The event was inaugurated by Evan Robbins, the Program Director from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. Approximately 150 participants, including prosecutors, defense attorneys, law enforcement officials, and investigators, have gathered for this two-day conference.
One of the key highlights of the event will be discussions led by eminent speakers from both local and international backgrounds, centered around the theme “Fiji on the Cusp of Emerging Trends: Narcotics, Age of Criminal Responsibility, International Cooperation, AI, Cyber Security, and Mental Health.”
Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms. Nancy Tikoisuva, emphasized the relevance of this theme to the current challenges facing Fiji. She pointed out that while the topics may appear disparate at first glance, they are indeed interconnected. Ms. Tikoisuva expressed concern about the impact of drug-related issues on families and communities, highlighting that children are particularly vulnerable. She noted the changing landscape in which these crimes occur, which calls for a deeper understanding of their implications.
In addition to narcotics, Ms. Tikoisuva brought attention to other critical issues such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the mental health crisis, which are affecting the wellbeing of citizens. She stressed the importance of collaborative efforts, stating that combating these challenges cannot be done in isolation. Strengthening partnerships among law enforcement, the private sector, and civil society is essential for a comprehensive approach.
This conference aims to serve as an educational platform for stakeholders in law enforcement to discuss emerging criminal issues and gain insights from experienced keynote speakers.
As a positive note, this gathering represents a significant step toward a united front in addressing complex criminal challenges. By fostering international cooperation and collaboration across various sectors, Fiji is paving the way for a more secure future for its citizens.
Overall, this conference not only addresses pressing issues but also promotes collective action towards building safer communities.
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