The Fiji Police Force reported a total of 635 theft incidents in July. Among these, three specific cases involved thefts surpassing half a million dollars, stemming from a restaurant, a supermarket, and a foreign exchange shop. Investigations indicated the involvement of six employees from these establishments in the thefts, which collectively amounted to over half a million dollars.
Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew announced a 52 percent rise in the overall crime rate for July compared to the same period in 2023, marking a 17 percent increase since June. This rise is attributed to more cases of theft, assault, and burglary, with theft alone accounting for 635 incidents.
In terms of assaults, Mr. Chew noted a rise of 96 cases, as July 2024 saw 347 assaults compared to 251 during the same month last year. Additionally, the report highlighted a 42 percent increase in illegal drug cases, with 188 incidents recorded this July compared to 132 cases reported the previous year.