Fiji’s Police Force Gets Revamp Amid Rising Crime Concerns

The Fiji Police Force is set to bolster its operational capabilities in response to a concerning 26 percent spike in crime reported for January 2025, building on a troubling 27 percent increase throughout 2024. Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua addressed these developments in Parliament, highlighting the imperative need for strategic reforms to tackle rising crime rates effectively.

In light of these challenges, the government has introduced the Police Uplift Initiative, aimed at modernizing the police force to better address the evolving nature of crime and public safety. Naivalurua reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the Fiji Police Force to align with the demands of a progressively changing society.

Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu leads efforts to uplift the organization while emphasizing core values such as justice, integrity, and community service. The Coalition Government is focused on continuous improvement of law enforcement practices, striving to achieve better public safety outcomes in the face of increasingly sophisticated criminal activities.

The urgency for reform has been underscored by past discussions concerning community engagement, particularly regarding the protection of vulnerable groups like women and children, who are often disproportionately affected by crime. The review of the antiquated Police Act of 1965 is among the proactive measures being taken to modernize the force effectively.

These initiatives highlight a strategic commitment to enhancing public safety and restoring confidence in law enforcement. By emphasizing modern tactics and fostering closer community relationships, there is a promising outlook for creating a safer Fiji, where residents can feel secure under their police force’s support.

This renewed dedication to transparency and collaboration with the community represents a vital advancement. It suggests that, through collective efforts, it is possible to reduce crime rates and cultivate a more cohesive and secure environment for all citizens of Fiji.