The Fiji Police Force is sounding the alarm over a troubling rise in crimes against children. Last month, there was a reported 25 percent increase in such offenses, totaling 138 cases, with 93 involving girls and 45 involving boys.
Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci noted that 54 percent of these cases were sexual offenses, 33 percent were related to assaults, and 13 percent fell under other categories. Additionally, 22 percent of the incidents were domestic in nature, involving family members such as cousins and parents.
Raikaci explained that the surge in crimes against children was largely due to a rise in assault cases, which increased from 23 to 35, as well as a jump in abductions of individuals under 18 from 5 to 22 cases, and sexual assaults rising from seven to 20.
Overall, the crime rate for last month increased by eight percent compared to the previous year. Serious crimes rose by 11 percent, crimes against women increased by four percent, and crimes against children saw a significant 25 percent rise.
In a bid to ensure accountability, five police officers were charged last month with various offenses, including sexual crimes, assault, drug offenses, and violations of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders. Raikaci acknowledged that police officers are also victims, citing 25 cases of serious assaults on officers, along with one obstruction case and nine instances of resisting arrest.
“Policing is demanding, and officers face risks to their safety and lives while performing their duties. We are dedicated to meeting these challenges for the benefit of our communities,” he stated.
In terms of drug-related crimes, there were 143 cases reported in August compared to the same time last year, with 138 involving illegal possession of drugs and five pertaining to cultivation. A total of 135 individuals were charged with drug offenses, including three students facing multiple charges.
Raikaci expressed gratitude for the support the Fiji Police Force has received from community and religious leaders in their efforts to combat crime. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration to create safer neighborhoods and urged community members to report suspicious activities through Crime Stoppers by calling 919 or 917.