The Fiji Police Force has reported a troubling trend, revealing that more children in Fiji are becoming involved in criminal activities. Over the past five years, there have been a staggering 503 documented cases of juvenile sexual offenses, with 206 of these cases classified as rapes. This information was disclosed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, during the Annual Conference of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions held at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island resort in Fiji.
The police have expressed concerns regarding a proposed shift in the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 years. This change was suggested by Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, during a recent meeting with the United Nations Special Representative on Violence Against Children.
ACP Waqa highlighted that while many countries are moving towards increasing the age of criminal responsibility, such a change bears significant implications for public safety in Fiji. He emphasized that a higher age limit could lead to a lack of accountability for children aged 10 to 13, potentially emboldening them to commit serious offenses without the fear of legal consequences.
Additionally, he stressed the need for a delicate balance between rehabilitation and accountability within the juvenile justice system. He underscored that any proposed changes should integrate accountability while ensuring effective rehabilitation for young offenders.
To protect Fijian children, ACP Waqa called for a collaborative effort involving families, communities, the government, and various stakeholders to guide the younger generation towards making better choices and cultivating positive behavior.
In summary, while concerns regarding juvenile delinquency are rising, the dialogue on how to manage juvenile justice reflects a broader societal commitment to safeguarding children while holding them accountable for their actions. There is hope that continued collaboration among community members can foster an environment conducive to positive development for Fijian youth.
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