Fiji Police acknowledge criticism, seek community partnership to fight crime

Fiji's Police Force is actively seeking a broader societal partnership to combat crime, acknowledging that arrests alone are insufficient for lasting solutions. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu stated that the force accepts criticism regarding its response to recent aggravated robberies and burglaries.

To address these concerns, operational strategies are being enhanced to ensure police actions are more proactive. Despite public apprehension over recent incidents, official statistics indicate a reduction in several key crime categories. Between January and July of this year, compared to the same period in 2025, burglary saw a 7.3 percent decrease, robbery fell by 32.8 percent, aggravated robbery by 17.8 percent, aggravated burglary by 7.7 percent, and theft by 7.9 percent.

However, the statistics also reveal an increase in motor vehicle theft, rising from 31 cases in the first seven months of 2025 to 51 cases during the equivalent period this year. Commissioner Tudravu highlighted the critical need to investigate the underlying reasons for repeat offending, questioning why individuals become habitual offenders with multiple cases.

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The why factor. This is where we need to also focus our attention as a nation. We have individuals coming into the system who are habitual offenders with multiple theft or burglary cases, which begs two critical questions, why and what can be an effective deterrent?

He noted that while CCTV cameras have aided investigations, police actions should not be perceived as solely reactive, driven by social media. Overall crime saw an 11 percent decrease, with 10,106 cases recorded this year compared to 11,387 in the previous period. Tudravu emphasized that crime prevention is a shared national responsibility, urging collaboration across all sectors of society, regardless of background.

Constructive criticism is deemed vital for refining police tactics and preventing exploitation by offenders. The Commissioner also proposed discussions on potential legal reforms and alternative approaches for habitual offenders who rely on crime for income. The Community Policing arm of the force remains open for engagement with stakeholders on these issues.

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We need to work together because what is being posted on social media and the media at the end of the day impacts us all as a nation, irrespective of one’s race, gender, religious or political affiliations. Crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility.