In a concerted effort to enhance public safety, Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu has initiated proactive policing measures in Fiji, focusing on monitoring individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior and targeting loiterers in public spaces. Police officers will intensively patrol known hangout areas, particularly abandoned properties, as part of this strategy.
Commissioner Tudravu emphasized the importance of police visibility and interaction with the community, stating, “These are the basics of policing. Visibility, asking questions, and clearing individuals without a valid reason for being in those areas.” He aims to redirect the focus of local youth towards positive engagement, addressing frequent reports of harassment and misconduct associated with them.
Community involvement is deemed crucial to the success of this initiative. “It goes back to community support as it is about keeping our communities safe,” Tudravu noted. He expressed his commitment to foster constructive engagement with the youth, encouraging their participation in beneficial activities rather than succumbing to negative influences.
Significantly, the Fiji Police Force is collaborating with Crime Prevention Committees to reinforce community-based crime deterrence strategies. By re-establishing and empowering these committees across the five policing divisions, the police are demonstrating their resolve to work hand-in-hand with local communities to tackle crime.
This renewed focus on community-oriented policing represents a hopeful step towards improved public safety and established trust between the Fiji Police Force and the communities they serve. Previous discussions in similar articles have also highlighted the importance of collective efforts against crime, particularly concerning youth engagement and drug-related issues. Through cooperative action, there’s optimism that these initiatives will create a safer environment for all residents.
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