The Fiji Police Force has reported a significant increase in overall crime rates, showing a rise of 19 percent last month compared to the same period the previous year. Serious crimes have risen by 10 percent, with crimes against women seeing a notable 22 percent increase. The detection rate stands at 64 percent, while crimes against children have thankfully decreased by 9 percent.
While the Eastern Division experienced a drop in overall crime and specific crimes against women, other divisions have seen increases. Notably, in terms of serious crime and offenses against children, the Southern, Eastern, and Northern divisions reported reductions, contrasted by the rising figures in other areas.
The statistics reveal that 45 percent of theft cases reported in November were solved, while the detection rate for burglary was 20 percent. Aggravated robbery, however, saw a 16 percent detection rate during the same timeframe. The Southern Division experienced rises in both aggravated burglary and murder, while the Western Division noted increases in burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, and arson. The Eastern Division saw upticks in burglary, aggravated robbery, and vehicle theft, whereas the Northern Division recorded increases in vehicle theft and murder. The Central Division too reported rises in rape, robbery, vehicle theft, and murder.
Specifically concerning crimes against women, of the 217 reported cases in November, 80 percent were related to assault, and 20 percent were classified as sexual offenses. Domestic incidents accounted for 36 percent of these cases, often perpetrated by partners or spouses. On a somewhat positive note regarding crimes against children, there were 101 recorded cases last month, with an almost equal distribution between genders. Of these cases, 50 percent were assault-related, 40 percent were sexual offenses, and 10 percent linked to other offenses; notably, 16 percent of domestic cases involved various relative relationships.
While the overall increase in crime raises concerns, it is important to focus on the departments’ dedication to improving detection rates and addressing serious concerns such as domestic violence and crimes against children. Ongoing community engagement and proactive policing strategies may help foster safer environments and potentially reverse these concerning trends in the future.
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