Investigators in Fiji are receiving training from child specialists on conducting interviews using Video Recorded Interview (VRI) rooms, a program supported by the New Zealand Police through the Fiji Police Partnership Programme (FPPP).
The initiative involves senior officers from New Zealand collaborating with Fijian police to enhance efforts in four main areas: Training, Leadership, Dog Patrol, and Investigation. The partnership has reached notable achievements in training and building capacity, with the latest being the launch of a Child Interview Course.
Once the training is completed, investigators will be equipped to conduct video-recorded interviews with children, which can be presented as evidence in court.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci emphasized the importance of this training, stating it helps prevent the re-victimization of children. He highlighted the grim reality that many children globally, including in Fiji, face the threat of crime and sexual violence, as reflected in local crime statistics.
Raikaci noted that effective investigation is crucial and can serve as a deterrent if conducted thoroughly, leading to successful prosecutions. He expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Police for their support in improving investigative interviewing skills through the use of VRI rooms.