Inadequate legal frameworks are hampering the Fiji Police Force’s capacity to effectively combat online crimes, according to Police Online Inspector Salote Vuniwaqa. Speaking at the ‘Digital Veiwekani: Fighting Fake News Together’ event organized by the German Embassy, Vuniwaqa emphasized the disparity between the evolving nature of digital crimes and the existing laws in Fiji.
Vuniwaqa pointed out that critical areas are missing from legislation, notably the limitations of the Online Safety Act, which does not adequately address modern technologies such as artificial intelligence. She highlighted that although the Child Protection Act was passed last year to govern child sexual abuse material online, it has yet to be implemented.
“Reports are coming in, but we lack sufficient legal provisions to charge offenders,” Vuniwaqa stated, citing the inadequate penalties that fail to deter crime. For instance, the maximum penalty is five years in prison or a fine of $20,000, but offenders often receive automatic sentence reductions and can re-enter the community swiftly, diminishing the message of accountability.
Vuniwaqa advocated for stronger legislative measures and sentencing guidelines to ensure that perpetrators of online crimes, including scams and misinformation, are appropriately punished and deterred from reoffending. She stressed the need for laws that are suitable for the digital age to meaningfully address the growing threats of online crime.
Related reports indicate alarming growth in cybercrime in Fiji, with nearly 650 scam cases currently under investigation, including sophisticated schemes that have led to substantial financial losses for victims. Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing legal frameworks and providing necessary training to law enforcement. This proactive approach aims to strengthen the response against cybercrime, signaling determination to safeguard citizens from increasingly complex digital threats.
The combination of enhanced legal measures and community awareness reflects a promising path forward for Fiji in combating online crime. Educating the public about digital safety and establishing robust frameworks can empower citizens to navigate the online landscape more securely, ultimately fostering a safer digital environment.
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