Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka recently emphasized the disregard crime and criminals have for borders during his opening of the first Pacific Regional and National Security Conference for Pacific Islands Forum members. This took place in Suva, where Rabuka revealed the difficulties Fiji is facing in terms of transnational crimes and climate change. He highlighted the continuous fight against organized transnational crime to protect Fiji’s waters.
Through a collaborative effort of their border agencies and partner support, Fiji has carried out numerous raids, seizing drugs worth billions of dollars. Fijian waters have been identified as a hub and transit point in the Pacific by organized criminal groups involved in activities such as cybercrimes. However, Rabuka believes that such criminal organizations can be disrupted and dismantled with collaborative efforts by Fijians.
During the conference, Home Affairs Ministry Security Division manager Alipate Naulivou, emphasized the urgency of the conference, pointing out that although Fiji can handle some issues independently, success in dealing with others would require a communal effort.
The conference served as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of transnational crimes. Fiji understands the need for a broader community and ally support, focusing on the larger problem. It also brings up the question of political willpower to combat this societal scourge.
There are also calls for attention on seemingly peripheral issues like establishing rehabilitation centers. Understanding their impact on the larger problem is essential, much like the fight against HIV. The take home message from the conference emphasized proactivity, dialogue on important matters, and citizen encouragement to do the right thing and advocate for change. As Rabuka stated, crime bears no respect for borders.