The Fiji Police Force is implementing substantial reforms to improve its operational efficiency in light of a concerning rise in crime rates. During a recent session in Parliament, Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua outlined several strategic measures designed to tackle these challenges. He has been conducting weekly meetings with Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to assess current police operations and their effectiveness.
Naivalurua highlighted a new focus on an intelligence-led policing strategy that targets key crime “red spot” areas across Fiji. “We know the red spot zones all over Fiji, and the focus of police operations at this point in time is on those red zones,” he asserted, underlining the critical need for precise resource allocation to mitigate crime.
To further enhance their operational capacity, the police force plans to incorporate modern technology into their approach. This includes the addition of body cameras and other monitoring devices, which are expected to be included in this year’s budget proposal. “This includes body cams, sprays, monitoring devices, and so forth,” Naivalurua noted, reflecting a commitment to advancing law enforcement tools.
These initiatives come as crime statistics reveal a troubling trend, with a 26 percent overall increase in January 2025, following a previous rise of 27 percent in 2024. These figures have intensified discussions about public safety and the increasingly sophisticated nature of criminal activities.
In addition to these efforts, the Fiji Police Force is focusing on the Police Uplift Initiative, aimed at modernizing the force to better address contemporary security threats. Naivalurua has previously mentioned the necessity of reviewing the outdated Police Act from 1965, which hinders the force’s ability to adopt new technologies effectively.
Community engagement is also a priority, particularly concerning crimes that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, such as women and children. By fostering collaboration between law enforcement and community members, the aim is to cultivate a cohesive method for crime prevention.
Despite the rising crime statistics, these ongoing reform initiatives present a promising outlook. The commitment to improving police capabilities through modern technology, targeted strategies, and community involvement not only enhances public safety but also represents a significant step toward rebuilding trust in the Fiji Police Force. With these proactive measures in place, there is hope for a more secure and safe environment for all Fiji residents.
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