In a collaborative effort to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial capabilities in response to the rising crime rates in the country, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) are conducting a training program in Suva this week.
The training commenced on Monday at the Suvavou House, attracting participants from various agencies, including police investigators, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (FRCS), and ODPP prosecutors.
During the event, acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci emphasized that the training aims to help investigators and prosecutors improve their skills in information gathering and litigation related to the Proceeds of Crimes Act.
The program is organized into two sessions, as AFP senior liaison officer Detective Superintendent Adrian Morton pointed out that this specialized training for Fiji will equip investigators and prosecutors with effective tools to address issues of money laundering and asset confiscation.
Superintendent Morton stated, “The AFP has adopted the philosophy that tracking money and seizing assets will diminish the ability of crime syndicates to profit from their activities.” He expressed optimism for the workshops, expecting that collaboration among agencies will enhance the capability of investigators and litigators to seize assets from individuals benefiting from criminal activities in Fiji.
Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva underscored the importance of building capacity to improve skills essential for managing the surge in crime.