The Fiji Police Force has raised concerns about the increasing involvement of children in criminal activities, particularly regarding juvenile sexual offenses. Over the last five years, authorities have recorded a troubling 503 cases of juvenile sexual offenders, with 206 of those classified as rapes. This alarming statistic was disclosed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, during the Annual Conference of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions held at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island resort.
A significant point of discussion was the proposed shift in the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 years, advocated by Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, in recent talks with the United Nations Special Representative on Violence Against Children. While the international community has seen a trend in this direction, ACP Waqa emphasized the potential implications for public safety and law enforcement in Fiji. He expressed that raising this age could lead to a lack of accountability among younger offenders, allowing them to commit serious crimes without facing immediate legal repercussions.
ACP Waqa highlighted the importance of a balanced approach in the justice system, combining rehabilitation and accountability, particularly for children. He urged that while advocating for more humane juvenile justice practices, it is vital not to undermine the role of families and communities in guiding children toward making better choices.
To effectively address this issue, ACP Waqa called for collaboration among families, community leaders, the government, and various stakeholders. He believes this partnership is crucial for protecting children and promoting positive behavior while ensuring any changes in policy maintain an element of accountability and rehabilitation.
In summary, the Fiji Police Force is calling for careful consideration regarding juvenile crime legislation, emphasizing that a collaborative community approach is essential for safeguarding children and fostering a more accountable environment.
This situation highlights an area where proactive measures and community engagement can make a substantial difference. With shared responsibility, Fiji can work towards a safer environment for its youth, ultimately reducing juvenile crime while supporting rehabilitation and positive development opportunities.
Leave a comment