The Fiji Police Force has raised concerns over a troubling rise in crimes against children. Recently, a 25 percent increase in such crimes was observed compared to the previous month. Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci reported that last month, there were 138 recorded cases involving children, comprising 93 girls and 45 boys.
Out of these cases, more than half, specifically 54 percent, were categorized as sexual offences, while 33 percent were related to assault, and 13 percent fell under other categories. Additionally, 22 percent of the recorded incidents were domestic in nature, involving familial relationships such as cousins and parent-child dynamics.
Mr. Raikaci noted that the surge in crimes against children was primarily driven by an increase in assault cases, which rose from 23 to 35, along with a significant rise in abduction cases involving minors, from 5 to 22 incidents, and sexual assaults, which increased from seven to 20 cases. Overall, the crime rate for the previous month showed an eight percent increase when compared to the same month last year, with serious crimes rising by 11 percent, crimes against women by four percent, and crimes against children by 25 percent.
In a move to ensure accountability among police personnel, Mr. Raikaci reported that five police officers were charged last month for various serious offences, including sexual offences, assault, drug-related crimes, and breaches of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders. However, he emphasized that police officers also became victims of crime while carrying out their duties, highlighting that there were 25 cases of serious assault against police officers, as well as incidents involving obstruction and resisting arrest.
Mr. Raikaci explained that policing is inherently challenging, with officers facing risks to their safety in the line of duty. He reaffirmed their commitment to overcoming these challenges for the benefit of the community.
On the topic of drug-related crimes, Mr. Raikaci stated that there were 143 drug cases recorded in August, compared to the same period last year, with 138 pertaining to illicit drug possession and five concerning the unlawful cultivation of such drugs. A total of 135 individuals faced charges for drug-related offences, including three students.
In light of the increased support for policing initiatives, Mr. Raikaci acknowledged the contributions made by religious and community leaders in combating crime. He called for ongoing collaboration to maintain momentum for building safer communities, underlining that collective efforts are crucial for tackling illegal activities and protecting vulnerable groups. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities and crimes through Crime Stoppers at the designated numbers.