The Fiji Police Force is poised to significantly enhance its operational effectiveness within the next three months, as outlined by Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua during a recent parliamentary session. This announcement came in response to concerns raised by Opposition MP Shalen Kumar regarding the government’s strategy to combat rising crime rates, which have shown a worrying trend of an overall increase.
Naivalurua noted optimistic signs in crime statistics, highlighting a reduction in crime rates compared to the previous year. He emphasized the implementation of various strategic measures aimed at effectively addressing crime, particularly in identified high-risk areas commonly referred to as “red spots.” These initiatives involve deploying resources proactively, ensuring timely responses to incidents and enhancing police visibility in these critical zones.
Special units have been dispatched to areas such as Kadavu and Vanua Levu to tackle drug-related issues, with plans to expand efforts to other crime hotspots. In his remarks, Naivalurua stressed the necessity of building stronger relationships between police and local communities to restore public trust in law enforcement.
The integration of modern technological resources is also a significant aspect of this strategy. The Fiji Police Force is set to optimize CCTV technology and surveillance measures to gather concrete evidence for investigations, allowing for more efficient apprehension of offenders and resolution of cases.
Additionally, municipal councils are being encouraged to take greater responsibility for safety within their jurisdictions as a means to support crime prevention efforts. Naivalurua stated, “This is a challenging task that requires mobility and the capacity to move things effectively forward,” underscoring the complex nature of modern policing.
Despite the rising crime statistics presented in earlier reports—showing a 26 percent increase in crime rates for January 2025 following a 27 percent overall rise in 2024—these ongoing reform initiatives, such as the Police Uplift Initiative, represent a commitment to modernizing the police force. Past discussions have pointed out the demanded review of the outdated Police Act from 1965 as part of these changes, which hampers the adoption of new technologies and operational protocols.
In light of these proactive measures, there remains a hopeful outlook for the future of law enforcement in Fiji. The promotion of community collaboration and the upgrade of policing strategies signal a dedicated effort to create a safer environment for all residents. With collective determination and innovative approaches, there is potential for significant improvements in both public safety and rebuilding trust in the Fiji Police Force.
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