The government of Fiji, alongside law enforcement agencies, is ramping up efforts to tackle the worrying rise in crime rates and rebuild public confidence in the Fiji Police Force. Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua reassured members of Parliament that under the guidance of Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, there is a strong commitment to reforming policing practices to adhere to the fundamental principles of justice and integrity.
This commitment to reform is particularly timely, given alarming crime statistics showing an overall increase of 27 percent in 2024, followed by an additional rise of 26 percent in January 2025. Minister Naivalurua underscored the urgency of adopting a proactive approach, disclosing plans to enhance police visibility and strengthen community engagement in the coming months, which are essential to effectively combat the evolving nature of crime.
A key component of these reforms is the Police Uplift Initiative, designed to modernize and improve the capabilities of the police force amid increasingly sophisticated criminal activities. Naivalurua stressed the importance of innovative operational strategies and the integration of advanced technology to tackle contemporary safety challenges.
In addition to these preventive measures, Naivalurua acknowledged the collaborative groundwork established by Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua, which has been instrumental in paving the way for these reforms. Notably, the government is also addressing issues surrounding the outdated Police Act of 1965, which has been identified as a hurdle to the modernization of law enforcement practices.
Community involvement remains crucial in addressing the rise in crime, especially concerning crimes that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations like women and children. Past discussions have highlighted the pressing requirement for reform and the determination of police leadership to restore public trust through initiatives such as the Police Reset Strategy.
While the challenges presented by rising crime statistics and public perception are significant, the combined efforts of the Fiji government and police leaders aim to create a safer community where residents can once again feel confident in their law enforcement. The ongoing initiatives and emphasis on community engagement represent a hopeful direction for enhancing public safety and re-establishing trust in the police force.
Leave a comment