Fiji’s Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, recently revealed that the M-PAiSA scam has escalated to a staggering value of over $610,000. During a session in Parliament, Mr. Turaga highlighted the alarming rise of digital scams, which has necessitated specialized training for State prosecutors in cyber-related crime.
He noted that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is intensifying efforts to offer targeted training on various aspects of cyber crime as well as cyber-enabled crime. This includes plans for a digital forensic investigation training program scheduled to begin in January 2025. The objective is to better equip prosecutors to handle the evolving nature of crime in the digital age.
Mr. Turaga emphasized that the ongoing M-PAiSA scam, along with the Ebay Shop Online recruitment scam, showcases the seriousness of cyber-enabled crime in Fiji. Currently, the Criminal Investigation Department is investigating around 650 cases related to these crimes.
The growing interest among State lawyers in receiving specialized training is a positive development, demonstrating the commitment of the judiciary to combat cyber crime effectively. This proactive approach reflects a determination to address the challenges posed by the digital landscape and protect citizens from evolving threats.
As Fiji strengthens its resources in cyber crime prevention and prosecution, there is hope that these efforts will lead to greater awareness and ultimately a safer digital environment for its people.
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