The Fiji Police Force yesterday signed a new project together with the New Zealand Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This project aims to strengthen early access to justice in criminal proceedings while focusing on a victim-centred approach to investigations.

The four-year project valued at $9.2 million, aims to strengthen transparency, accountability and effectiveness of the Police, in collaboration with key justice stakeholders and civil organisations.

Commissioner of Police Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho said the first phase of the assistance would be aimed at improving the response capacity of Police in crisis management. This particularly focuses on Fiji’s battle against COVID-19.

“Its unpredictable nature means necessary steps must be taken now to equip and train frontline workers such as Police to be able to tackle a second wave, if any, although I really do not wish this on any country, however that is the reality that must be faced,” Brigadier-General Qiliho said.

“The assistance also includes the procurement of necessary equipment to support our ongoing efforts in enhancing our investigative interviewing infrastructure including the nation-wide expansion and piloting of the First Hour Procedure and video recording facilities.

“This again is truly appreciated as we have seen how effective the Pilot interview rooms at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters and Totogo have been since being introduced.”

Brigadier-General Qiliho expressed his gratitude to the New Zealand Government and the UNDP for the continuous support over the years.

New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji Jonathan Curr said the new project would enhance investigative skills, providing early access to justice and promoting gender equality.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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