Investigators are currently undergoing specialized training in child interviewing, utilizing Video Recorded Interview (VRI) rooms facilitated by the New Zealand Police as part of the Fiji Police Partnership Programme (FPPP).
This initiative involves senior officers from the New Zealand Police collaborating with the Fiji Police to enhance ongoing efforts across four key areas: Training, Leadership, Dog Patrol, and Investigation.
The partnership has reached significant milestones, with the latest achievement being the launch of the Child Interview Course. Once the training is completed, investigators will be equipped to interview children via video recording, which will then be admissible as evidence in court.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci emphasized the importance of this training in preventing further victimization of children. He stated, “The unfortunate reality is that millions of children worldwide are victims of crime and sexual violence. Our own children face similar risks every day, as reflected in our monthly statistics.”
He further noted, “While we receive reports of incidents, thorough investigations are just as crucial as proactive policing. If we conduct investigations effectively and achieve successful prosecutions, we can convey a strong deterrent message.” Raikaci expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Police for their support in bolstering investigative interviewing capabilities through the training of more officers in the use of VRI facilities.