Police in Fiji are facing serious allegations of covering up domestic violence cases by reportedly encouraging men to counter charge, according to Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC). Ali spoke out about the insensitivity displayed by police towards women who lodge complaints, arguing that many officers lack the necessary training to manage domestic violence cases effectively.
In response, Vani Rogoimuri, a senior investigator with the Fiji Police Force’s sexual offence unit, highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive domestic violence training for new recruits. Rogoimuri emphasized that new officers often lack the knowledge and sensitivity required to handle these delicate situations appropriately.
Ali’s concerns echo previous criticisms regarding the police’s handling of domestic violence complaints. She has stated that officers sometimes undermine the gravity of such incidents and may even deter victims from coming forward. Recent statistics from the FWCC reveal that in 2024 alone, 1,513 new domestic violence cases were recorded, with suggestions that actual numbers could be much higher due to underreporting.
Rogoimuri stressed the importance of addressing domestic violence complaints with the seriousness they warrant and highlighted that while there have been informative sessions at some stations, a more comprehensive approach to training new officers is necessary. “If we integrate proper training into the recruitment process, it could equip officers with the understanding they need to respond appropriately,” she said.
The importance of reform in police training has been a recurring theme among advocates. Many assert that enhancing sensitivity and awareness in law enforcement is critical for ensuring justice and support for victims of domestic violence. There is a sense of hope that ongoing dialogues between the FWCC and police leadership, especially under the incoming Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, will pave the way for significant improvements in handling domestic violence cases.
This initiative signals a commitment to better protect vulnerable individuals within the community with the goal of creating a more responsive and supportive police force, aligning practices with the “No Drop” policy intended to ensure all domestic violence reports are investigated thoroughly.
The situation in Fiji illustrates a pressing need for systemic changes within the police force, emphasizing that with the right training and sensitivity, law enforcement can become a formidable ally in protecting victims of domestic violence. As both the FWCC and police work toward shared goals, there is growing optimism for meaningful progress in the ongoing battle against domestic violence.
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