Turaga calls for strengthening cooperation in fighting crime – FBC News

Police officers on patrol (Source: Fiji Police Force/ Facebook)

Minister of Justice Siromi Turaga is calling for increased vigilance and strengthened cooperation among law enforcement agencies to combat rising crime rates, especially in areas such as drug trafficking, child exploitation and cybercrime.

Turaga delivered the closing speech at the Annual Conference of the Directorate of Prosecution, where participants discussed pressing issues and shared international best practices.

The Minister of Justice emphasizes the importance of a robust system that will protect Fiji’s stability and values ​​of justice, security and accountability.

“We must advance cooperation between the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Fiji Police Force. Lawyers need to be integrated into police operations to ensure cases are handled legally and effectively, preventing procedural missteps and jeopardizing prosecution.”

Minister of Justice Siromi Turaga (Source: Ministry of Justice/ Facebook)

Turaga also touched on the issue of child protection, emphasizing the need to balance justice and compassion when dealing with young offenders.

“Balancing justice and compassion towards young offenders is critical. “Setting the age of criminal responsibility requires careful consideration of protecting children while holding those who exploit them to account.”

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting a safer and stronger Fiji through strengthened enforcement, regulatory updates and proactive international cooperation.