The Fiji Police Force reported a concerning 23 percent rise in criminal cases for January 2025 compared to the previous year, with a total of 1,707 incidents documented. Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu provided these details during a media briefing at the Fiji Police Force headquarters in Suva.
The breakdown of crime statistics indicated a significant increase in serious crimes, which rose by 13 percent. Crimes against women saw an 8 percent uptick, while offenses against children increased by 9 percent. Specifically, thefts dominated the month’s crime occurrences, rising dramatically from 279 cases to 420. A noticeable surge in agricultural thefts was particularly alarming. Additionally, illicit drug offenses reported a slight increase of 2 percent.
Tudravu also highlighted a growing trend in cyber-related crimes, particularly financial deceit linked to mobile service transactions, alongside other prevalent offenses including assault, drug possession, burglary, aggravated robbery, and criminal intimidation.
Despite these troubling statistics, Commissioner Tudravu reassured the public of the police’s commitment to improving service delivery and restoring trust within the community. He urged patience as they work to implement proposed reforms aimed at enhancing professionalism and responsiveness in policing operations.
This reported increase in crime reflects ongoing challenges in public safety, but it also presents an opportunity for law enforcement to strengthen their strategies and foster partnerships with the community. By focusing on collaboration and transparency, there is hope for a safer Fiji.
The previous reports from November and past months had also highlighted rising crime trends, particularly concerning offenses against vulnerable populations like women and children, accentuating the necessity for ongoing community engagement and law enforcement vigilance to address these issues effectively.
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