Local Pornography Content Under Investigation

The Fiji Police Force will investigate messenger groups where explicit images, videos and social media accounts of local male and females are being shared.

The Fiji Sun alerted authorities with the hope of shedding light on the reality that our once conservative nation has come to.

Additionally, we also hope to increase awareness against porn and its harmful impact on society and increase awareness in cases where individuals have been possibly exploited.

Over the past three years, many people have filed complaints with the Online Safety Commission (OSC) about explicit pictures and videos shared without their consent.

In 2023, about 11 per cent of all matters received by the Commission were related to image-based abuse.

Speak up, urges commissioner

Acting Commissioner for the Online Safety Commission, Tajeshwari Devi, is encouraging Fijians to report online abuse.

By speaking up, she said they were not only empowering themselves, but also help to create a safer online environment for everyone.

She said all matters with the commission were kept confidential all the time.

“I understand the fear and shame that can come with reporting online abuse. It takes courage to speak up and seek help, especially when facing image-based abuse or other forms of online harm,” Ms Devi said.

“I assure you that your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities. I encourage those who are hesitant to come forward to remember that you are not alone.

“Do not let fear or shame silence your voice. Your experiences matter, and by seeking help, you are taking a powerful step towards reclaiming your sense of security and dignity.”

Ms Devi reiterated to Fijians to think carefully before sharing explicit pictures or videos with someone they are in a relationship with or think they can trust.

“While it may seem harmless at the time, once these images are shared, they are out of your control and can be used against you in ways you never imagined.

“Remember, once something is shared online, it can never truly be erased.”

Under Section 24 and 25 of the Online Safety Act 2018, it is deemed an offense to cause harm by posting electronic communication and posting an intimate visual recording without consent.

The Commission continues to increase education and awareness about the risks associated with sharing explicit content, to help prevent future incidents and promote safer online behaviour in Fiji.

Report them

The Assistant Commissioner of Police - Crime Mesake Waqa is advising the public to refrain from sharing explicit photos even if it’s to someone they knew on a close or intimate level.

“There are too many risks involved and once shared in a public forum, it’s hard to remove. We urge members of the public to report such matters and groups to Police,” ACP Waqa said.

“An investigation will be conducted regarding these explicit images, as it is an offence under the Crimes Act 2009 for someone to trafficking obscene publication for the purpose of public publication.”

He called on victims of online explicit images sharing to contact the Officer in Charge Cybercrime at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters on 9905615.

Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj