The Fiji Police Force has raised alarms over an increasing number of children becoming involved in criminal activities. Alarmingly, the police have reported 503 cases involving juvenile sexual offenders over the last five years, with 206 of those incidents classified as rape. These statistics were shared by Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Annual Conference in Fiji.
Concerns have also been voiced regarding the proposal to shift the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 years. This proposition was introduced by the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, during discussions with a United Nations representative. While such changes have been seen in other countries, ACP Waqa emphasized the potential implications for Fiji and the safety of its citizens.
He argued that increasing the age of criminal responsibility could have regressive consequences, leading to a lack of accountability for young offenders aged 10 to 13. This, he suggested, could result in a greater willingness among young individuals to engage in serious crimes without the fear of immediate repercussions.
To address these issues, ACP Waqa stressed the importance of community involvement in guiding children toward making positive choices. He advocated for a collaborative approach involving families, local communities, the government, and other stakeholders to ensure the welfare of Fijian children. Any changes to the current laws should focus on maintaining both accountability and rehabilitation to promote safety and positive development among youth.
The conversation surrounding juvenile crime in Fiji highlights the need for ongoing discussions about how best to protect and rehabilitate young offenders while ensuring community safety. It presents an opportunity for authorities to engage in meaningful dialogues with various stakeholders to strategize effective prevention and intervention methods.
Summary: Fijian authorities are expressing concern over the rising involvement of children in criminal activities, citing a significant number of juvenile sexual offense cases. The proposed shift in the criminal responsibility age has sparked debate, prompting discussions on balancing accountability with rehabilitation while protecting public safety. Collaborative efforts are deemed essential to guide youth toward positive behavior, pointing to a need for a well-rounded approach in addressing juvenile crime in Fiji.
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