Fiji has experienced a notable decrease in its overall crime rate, with a reported 18 percent drop in the first quarter of the year, according to data recently released by the Fiji Police Force. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu shared that there were 4,049 reported criminal cases from August to October, a reduction from the 4,960 cases recorded during the same period last year. This positive development is attributed to coordinated police operations and intensified efforts in combatting drug-related offenses.
The statistics reveal a downward trend in crime rates across all divisions in Fiji, namely the Southern, Western, Eastern, and Central regions. In contrast, the Northern Division did see a negligible increase of three percent. Notably, serious crimes decreased by 35 percent across all divisions, with significant improvements reported regarding crimes targeting vulnerable groups. Offenses against women saw a reduction of 10 percent, while crimes against children experienced a substantial drop of 34 percent.
Nonetheless, Commissioner Tudravu voiced concerns regarding ongoing issues with domestic assaults and sexual offenses, noting that incidents involving women totaled 231, down from 245 the previous year. There is a continued need for vigilance, particularly around the persistent issues of rape, indecent assault, and domestic violence.
The campaign against illicit drug offenses has yielded a 30 percent reduction in related cases. This decline is largely linked to Operation Sasamaki, during which police registered 334 drug cases, primarily for possession, along with additional cases related to cultivation and importation. The operation will continue on a national scale to ensure a sustained focus on drug-related challenges.
Commissioner Tudravu assured the community that the police are committed to managing high-risk crimes and monitoring areas known for recurring offenses to enhance public safety. The encouraging statistics highlight the effectiveness of police initiatives fueled by community support, providing hope for further improvements in safety across Fiji. As the police refine their strategies and foster community engagement, there remains a promising outlook for continued crime reduction, contributing to a safer environment for all residents.