The Fiji Police Force has sounded the alarm regarding a troubling increase in crimes against children. Recent statistics indicate a 25 percent rise in such crimes last month, with 138 cases reported—comprising 93 girls and 45 boys.
Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci revealed that more than half of these incidents, specifically 54 percent, were sexual offenses. Additionally, 33 percent were related to assaults, while the remaining 13 percent involved other types of offenses. Notably, 22 percent of these cases were domestic in nature, involving relatives like cousins or parent-child relationships.
Commissioner Raikaci highlighted that the surge in crimes against children can be attributed to specific increases: assaults rose from 23 to 35 cases, abductions of individuals under 18 jumped from 5 to 22 cases, and sexual assaults increased from 7 to 20 cases. Overall, the crime rate last month marked an 8 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Serious crimes saw an 11 percent rise, while crimes against women rose by 4 percent.
In a bid to hold Police officers accountable for their actions, five officers were charged last month for various offenses, including sexual crimes, assault, drug-related offenses, and violations of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO). However, officers are also facing challenges themselves, with 25 cases of serious assaults reported against police officers, along with other incidents of obstruction and resisting arrest.
Commissioner Raikaci emphasized the dangers faced by officers while on duty, acknowledging the inherent risks of policing and their commitment to tackling these challenges for the sake of community safety.
Regarding drug-related issues, the month of August saw a total of 143 drug cases, with 138 instances involving the illegal possession of drugs and five related to unlawful cultivation. A total of 135 individuals were charged, including three students.
Commissioner Raikaci expressed gratitude for the support from religious and community leaders in combating crime. He urged the community to maintain this momentum and collaborate to create safer neighborhoods, encouraging the reporting of suspicious activities to help protect vulnerable groups.