The Fiji Police Force has initiated the development of its Five-Year Strategic Plan for the period 2025-2029, which aims to enhance officer training, modernize policing techniques, and rebuild public trust. Assistant Superintendent of Police George Lagi, who is overseeing the planning, stated that the framework of this plan will reflect the changing demands of the community over the next five years.
The strategic plan is anchored on four key pillars: strategic planning and human resources, leadership, integrity and ethics, and operational capability. Lagi emphasized the need to improve police capabilities, suggesting that investing in training and equipping officers with the essential skills and knowledge will be critical to their evolution.
Moreover, this initiative highlights the significance of innovative approaches and technology in modern policing. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration with the community, the Fiji Police Force aims to create an organization that is respected and trusted by the public, akin to sentiments expressed during concurrent engagements about community involvement and feedback in shaping policing priorities.
Given the recent spike in crime rates, reported at a 26 percent increase in January 2025, this plan comes at a crucial moment. Ongoing strategies include improving community partnerships, leveraging advanced technology, and enhancing procedural capabilities to ensure a more responsive and effective law enforcement presence.
Feedback from community consultations, part of previous reform efforts like the Police Reset initiative, demonstrates a commitment to adapting policing methods to better meet the needs of society. Such collaborative approaches not only bolster public safety but also signal a hopeful future where trust between the Fiji Police Force and the communities they serve can be significantly restored.
The focus on modernization and community engagement represents a proactive and strategic move towards addressing contemporary challenges in law enforcement, paving the way for a safer and more secure environment for all citizens in Fiji.
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