Fiji Police plea for community help as sacrilege cases target places of worship
The Fiji Police Force is appealing for community support in sharing information related to crimes targeting places of worship. Such acts are described as often driven by self-interest for financial gain or by youths acting out, with the goal of creating disruption rather than advancing a cause.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said community policing teams conduct visits and operations ahead of major religious events to raise awareness about safety and security for worshippers. Investigations so far show these sacrilege incidents are opportunistic in nature, with political links being ruled out.
From January to July 2025, seven men have been arrested and charged in connection with incidents at churches, mosques, temples, and private prayer rooms. The cases do not appear to be racially motivated; among those arrested, three are Fijians of Indian descent and four are I-taukei men.
The Commissioner emphasized the need for respect for everyone’s right to practice religion or belief, whether in private or in public spaces. He urged communities to work together to safeguard sacred spaces.
Context and related developments
While the police have underscored the opportunistic nature of these acts, similar incidents across Fiji have spurred broader discussions on community safety and interfaith respect. Notable cases in recent months have included temple break-ins and vandalism, including break-ins at the Dugapatu Mariamman Temple and other temples where equipment and offerings have been targeted. In some instances, police have pursued suspects with house-to-house inquiries and deployed specialized resources to support investigations, underscoring the collaboration between law enforcement and local communities.
What communities can do
– Stay vigilant and report suspicious activity promptly to the police.
– Support and participate in temple security committees and interfaith safety initiatives.
– Help counter misinformation and promote respectful dialogue about differing faiths.
– Engage with authorities to review and strengthen security measures around places of worship, especially ahead of religious events.
Outlook
Despite the troubling trend, officials and community leaders remain hopeful. The emphasis is on unity, dialogue, and lawful action to protect sacred spaces and foster harmony among Fiji’s diverse faith communities. By working together, police and residents can build a safer environment for worshippers and reinforce the message that places of worship are shared sanctuaries that deserve protection and respect.
Additional notes
– Past cases and ongoing investigations have highlighted the importance of coordinated security efforts across districts, including the use of collaboration between police divisions and local faith leaders.
– The overarching aim is to maintain peace and ensure that acts of sacrilege are addressed swiftly, with accountability and respect for due process.
Summary
The Fiji Police Force is actively seeking community involvement to help prevent and solve sacrilege against places of worship, stressing that these crimes are opportunistic and not politically motivated. With seven arrests to date and a continued focus on interfaith cooperation and lawful responses, authorities are urging all communities to unite in protecting sacred spaces and upholding religious freedom.
Leave a comment