The Fiji Police Force reported a total of 635 theft incidents for July. Among these, three cases alone accounted for over half a million dollars in stolen goods, with the thefts taking place at a restaurant, a supermarket, and a foreign exchange outlet. Six employees from these establishments were involved in these incidents.
Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew noted that the overall crime rate in July saw a significant increase of 52 percent compared to the same month in 2023, and a 17 percent rise compared to June. This surge in crime rates was linked to a rise in theft, assault, and burglary cases.
In terms of assault, there was a notable increase of 96 cases reported, with 347 incidents documented in July 2024, compared to 251 during the same month last year.
Additionally, the occurrence of illegal drug activities rose by 42 percent, with 188 drug-related incidents reported this July, up from 132 in the previous year.