Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has announced encouraging news for the nation, revealing that Fiji has witnessed an impressive 18 percent decrease in overall crime during the first quarter of the year, covering the months from August to October. At a press conference, Tudravu shared that the number of reported cases fell from 4,960 last year to 4,049 this year.
This positive trend is reflected across multiple divisions in Fiji, including the Southern, Western, Eastern, and Central areas, although the Northern Division experienced a slight increase in crime of 3 percent. Significant strides were made in reducing serious crimes, which plummeted by 35 percent across all divisions.
Particularly noteworthy is the reduction in offenses against vulnerable groups. Crimes against women decreased by 10 percent, and those against children dropped by 34 percent, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting these populations. However, Tudravu cautioned that domestic-related crimes, including assaults and sexual offenses, remain areas of concern.
Additionally, illicit drug cases saw a remarkable 30 percent decrease. Since the launch of Operation Sasamaki, police have recorded 334 drug-related offenses, primarily concerning unlawful possession. These reductions indicate a committed focus on improving public safety and tackling drug-related activities.
While the overall crime statistics paint an optimistic picture, there remains a significant concern regarding road safety, as the Fiji Police recorded a worrying 73 percent increase in road fatalities, despite aiming for a 30 percent reduction. This highlights the need for continued focus and resources to address road safety issues effectively.
Tudravu expressed the intention to provide a detailed breakdown of these statistics soon for increased transparency, acknowledging that while the numbers are encouraging, they also invite discussion. The overall decrease in crime reflects a collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community, creating a hopeful outlook for public safety in Fiji. With the police’s commitment to continued partnership and transparency, residents can look forward to a safer environment in the future.