Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has emphasized Australia’s dedication to collaborating with Fiji in the battle against organized crime. This commitment was underscored during her announcement that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Fiji Police Force will co-host a significant Organised Crime Summit slated for May 2026.
Addressing the media in Suva, Commissioner Barrett expressed her enthusiasm for being in Fiji to share the news. She stated, “There is no other place that I would rather be today than to stand side by side with you to announce the AFP and Fiji Police Force will co-host an organised crime summit in May next year.” This summit is positioned as a pivotal moment in the coordinated efforts to confront organized crime that threatens societal values and undermines national sovereignty due to the greed and disregard of criminal entities.
Commissioner Barrett noted the extensive and intricate networks of criminals operating in the region require a collective response. She asserted, “These well-funded and entrenched criminal cartels and gangs require a strong, united Pacific bloc to identify, target and disrupt their illicit operating model.” Highlighting the importance of action over mere rhetoric, Barrett reinforced the commitment of both police forces to ensure community safety, asserting that “showing up when needed — that is what family does, and that is what our two police forces do for each other every day.”
The anticipated summit will build upon the existing effective collaboration between Fiji, Australia, and their Pacific partners. Barrett stated, “Fiji and Australia, with our Pacific partners, will fight to keep our region safe, and we are already doing this together and with great success. The summit is another example of how we are taking action together.”
Scheduled to address a variety of Pacific-specific organized crime issues, the summit will include topics such as illicit commodities, money laundering, cybercrime, foreign interference, environmental crime, and illegal fishing and logging. Law enforcement leaders from across the region, representatives from the Five Eyes law enforcement group, and officials from international organizations such as INTERPOL and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime will participate.
Commissioner Barrett concluded by committing to leveraging cutting-edge intelligence and technology to enhance the safety of communities in Fiji, Australia, and the broader Pacific region. She emphasized the vision and determination required to tackle organized crime, expressing pride in standing alongside a partner ready to face these pressing challenges.
This summit represents a hopeful step forward in the united fight against organized crime, showcasing a commitment to regional safety and collaborative efforts that can lead to more secure communities.