Fiji is among 22 countries in the Pacific region that have established specific units to address transnational crime. Jodie Hurley, a senior officer from the Australian Federal Police Pacific Command, highlighted the Fiji Police Force’s strong commitment to combating these crimes, noting that they have four dedicated units supported by allocated resources.
Hurley made her remarks during the launch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report entitled “Transnational Organised Crime in the Pacific: Expansion, Challenges, and Impact,” which took place in Suva. She acknowledged the resource challenges faced by these efforts.
In total, there are 29 transnational crime units spread across 22 countries in the Pacific, and the Australian Government, alongside the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is actively supporting these units.
Hurley emphasized the significance of threat assessments to the entire region. Understanding the criminal environment is crucial in identifying why certain areas and countries are targeted by organized crime syndicates. This knowledge enables Pacific leaders to develop effective policies and responses aimed at disrupting criminal activities.
Hurley stated that by combining domestic and international law enforcement efforts, as well as collaboration with government and non-government organizations, the region can create an unfriendly environment for transnational organized crime.
She also mentioned that there is valuable information available to enhance the understanding of the regional transnational crime threats and strategies to counter them. The program outcomes will allow for specific discussions targeting identified threats and the development of necessary methods to reduce those threats.
In conclusion, she asserted that cooperation is essential in the fight against crime, and it is through initiatives like this program that the safety and well-being of Pacific communities can be ensured.