Four police officers in Fiji are facing serious charges, including assault causing actual bodily harm, rape, and bribery, as highlighted in the overall crime statistics reported for October by the Fiji Police Force. The report indicates a total of 22 cases of serious assaults on police personnel during this period.
The data reveals that marijuana-related cases dominate the crime statistics, with 160 instances recorded, while methamphetamine and cocaine cases were significantly lower, at 20 and one respectively. Alarmingly, crimes against children surged by 39%, with a large portion of these incidents classified as sexual offences—64% of the total cases. In total, 90 girls and 78 boys were reported as victims, with male family members being the perpetrators in 100% of domestic-related crimes.
Furthermore, crimes against women rose by 0.5%, primarily involving assault and sexual offences. Serious crimes overall increased by 17%, and sexual offences saw a significant surge of 32%. The statistics show a worrying trend in domestic violence, particularly against women and children, which increased by 42%.
On a slightly more positive note, the report indicates a decrease in cases of robbery and aggravated robbery, suggesting that some efforts in crime prevention may be bearing fruit. The recent spike in illicit drug cases is attributed to increased law enforcement activity, particularly in the Southern, Western, and Central Divisions.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, emphasized that the rise in crimes against women and children predominantly occurs within domestic environments. He affirmed the police force’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to address the underlying causes of these crimes. Chew noted that the increase in drug-related cases is a reflection of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and dismantle illicit networks, with community support being vital for achieving safer neighborhoods.
As the Fiji Police Force continues to focus on community engagement and proactive measures, there is a hopeful outlook that these efforts can lead to improved safety and a reduction in crime rates in the future. By fostering collaboration and emphasizing prevention, the police aim to make strides toward a safer society.
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