The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has kicked off a National Conference aimed at analyzing emerging criminal trends in Fiji, taking place at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Resort. The conference, featuring approximately 150 participants including prosecutors, defense attorneys, police officials, and investigators, was inaugurated by Evan Robbins, the Program Director from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs at the US State Department.
This two-day event is set to include keynote speakers from both local and international backgrounds, addressing 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, highlighted the complexity and relevance of the theme in relation to prevailing criminal issues in the nation. She pointed out that while the topics may seem unrelated at first, participants will discover their interconnectedness throughout the sessions. Ms. Tikoisuva emphasized the alarming impact of drug issues on various facets of society, including families, communities, and schools, underscoring the vulnerability of children amid these challenges.
Furthermore, Ms. Tikoisuva brought attention to the multifaceted threats posed by issues related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and mental health, advocating for a collaborative approach in combatting these problems. She asserted the necessity for international cooperation and integration among law enforcement, private sectors, and civil society in this collective effort.
The conference serves as a vital platform for law enforcement stakeholders to engage in discussions regarding emerging criminal issues and to gain insights from experienced keynote speakers.
This initiative is a significant step towards equipping Fiji’s law enforcement community with the knowledge and tools necessary to address evolving criminal challenges. It reflects a proactive approach in safeguarding the nation’s future by uniting various stakeholders in a common cause for public safety and justice.
Summary: The National Conference on emerging criminal trends in Fiji aims to discuss vital issues such as narcotics, age of criminal responsibility, cybersecurity, AI, and mental health, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in addressing these intertwined challenges.
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