The Fiji Police Force has expressed concern over a notable rise in crimes against children, which saw a 25 percent increase last month. Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci reported that 138 incidents were recorded, involving 93 girls and 45 boys.
Among the cases, 54 percent were categorized as sexual offences, 33 percent as assault-related, and 13 percent linked to other types of crimes. Additionally, 22 percent of the incidents were domestic in nature, involving relatives such as cousins and parent-child relationships.
Commissioner Raikaci noted the increase in crimes against children was driven primarily by a rise in assault cases from 23 to 35, an increase in abductions of minors from 5 to 22, and a jump in sexual assaults from seven to 20. Overall, crime rates in Fiji rose by eight percent last month compared to the same period last year, with serious crime up by 11 percent, crimes against women rising by four percent, and crimes against children increasing by 25 percent.
In a move to ensure accountability within the force, Commissioner Raikaci announced that five police officers were charged last month for various offences, including sexual assault, drug-related charges, and violations of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders. He acknowledged that police officers are also victims of crime while carrying out their duties, citing 25 serious assault cases against officers, one obstruction case, and nine instances of resisting arrest.
Raikaci emphasized the challenges faced by police officers as they work to protect their communities, stating, “Policing is challenging and everyday officers risk their safety and lives in the execution of their duties.”
Regarding drug-related incidents, there were 143 recorded cases in August, compared to the same month last year. Of these, 138 were for the unlawful possession of illicit drugs, and five related to the unlawful cultivation of such drugs. A total of 135 individuals were charged in relation to drug offences, with a few facing multiple charges, including three students.
Commissioner Raikaci acknowledged the support from community and religious leaders in combating crime, urging continued collaboration for safer neighborhoods. He called on residents to report suspicious activities through Crime Stoppers at 919 or 917, reinforcing the notion that collective efforts are essential in addressing illegal activities and safeguarding vulnerable communities.