Fiji is among 22 countries in the Pacific region that have established dedicated units to tackle transnational crime. Jodie Hurley, a senior officer with the Australian Federal Police Pacific Command, praised the Fiji Police Force for its commitment to combating this issue and noted that the force has four dedicated units with allocated resources.
Hurley spoke during the launch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report titled “Transnational Organised Crime in the Pacific: Expansion, Challenges, and Impact” in Suva. She acknowledged the resource limitations faced in addressing transnational crime within the region.
Across the Pacific, there are a total of 29 transnational crime units operating in 22 countries. Hurley highlighted the support from the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the Pacific Islands Transnational Organised Crime Units.
She emphasized the importance of threat assessments for all nations in the region, saying that understanding the crime landscape is key to formulating effective policies. Hurley stated that with proper knowledge, leaders can devise strategies to disrupt criminal activities.
Hurley called for collaborative efforts among domestic and international law enforcement agencies, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations to create an inhospitable environment for transnational organized crime.
She mentioned that ongoing programs would enhance understanding of the threats posed by transnational crime and facilitate discussions on targeted methods to address these challenges.
In conclusion, Hurley reinforced the notion that collective strength is crucial in the fight against transnational crime, emphasizing that partnerships and complementary initiatives will contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across the region.