The Fiji Police Force has reported a troubling increase in the involvement of children in criminal activities. Over the past five years, authorities recorded an alarming 503 cases of juveniles being sexual offenders, with 206 of these cases classified as rapes. This information was disclosed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, during the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Annual Conference held at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island resort in Fiji.
A key concern highlighted by ACP Waqa is the proposal to shift the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 years, a change suggested by Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, during a meeting with the United Nations Special Representative on Violence Against Children. Waqa emphasized that while this shift aligns with international trends, it carries significant implications for public safety and police operations in Fiji.
He expressed that increasing the age of criminal responsibility could lead to a higher risk of serious offenses without the appropriate accountability for children aged 10 to 13. This lack of immediate legal consequences could embolden younger offenders. Waqa stressed the necessity of a constructive deterrent to curb ongoing criminal behavior among youth while balancing rehabilitation with accountability within the justice system.
He called for collaboration among families, communities, the government, and stakeholders to protect Fijian children, asserting that any legislative changes should incorporate mechanisms for both accountability and rehabilitation.
As Fiji navigates these complex challenges, the emphasis on cooperation and community involvement offers a hopeful avenue for fostering a safer environment for its children. By addressing root issues and encouraging positive behaviors, there is potential for significant progress in preventing youth crime and promoting justice.
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