Tobacco-related offences are set to encounter stricter legal repercussions as the Tobacco Control and Enforcement Unit enhances its efforts to bolster prosecution and address enforcement gaps. A newly initiated five-day prosecution training program, supported by the World Health Organisation and facilitated by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, has brought together 46 officers from various regions of the country.
These officers have been identified as future prosecutors, playing a pivotal role in the Ministry’s commitment to modernize legal frameworks and ensure effective enforcement of tobacco laws at the ground level. The training program emphasizes practical prosecution skills, tackling the challenges currently faced by enforcement officers, and aligning legislation with emerging public health threats.
This initiative is designed not only to empower officers to confidently pursue cases in the courts but also to enhance accountability and fortify tobacco control measures on a national scale. The shift towards a more proactive enforcement strategy demonstrates the authorities’ dedication to protecting public health through strengthened legal actions and improved compliance throughout Fiji.
As these efforts unfold, they signal a positive step towards a healthier society, demonstrating a commitment to tackling tobacco-related issues effectively and safeguarding the well-being of the population.
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