Police Act overhaul to tackle cybercrime, AI and flying vehicles
Government pushes to modernise Fiji’s 60-year-old Police Act to address emerging security threats and future technologies.
Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 01:30
Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua with participants of the Police Act Review Validation Workshop at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva on October 28, 2025.
Photo: Kaneta Naimatau
Fiji’s 60-year-old Police Act is being updated to address modern challenges including cybercrime, artificial intelligence, and even flying police vehicles.
Speaking at the Police Act Review validation workshop at the Grand Pacific Hotel this morning, Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua said the 1965 legislation no longer reflected the realities of 21st century policing.
“We are fighting ahead in our front line, but our rules of engagement are really well behind,” Mr Naivalurua said.
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“I’m talking here about our Police Act in 1965 – the reasons why we are here.”
Mr Naivalurua challenged the review team to ensure the new Act had provisions for future technologies, citing flying police motorbikes already in use in Abu Dhabi.
“Will our laws contain provisions on how we police up here, how do we language that, that we will be able to understand the challenges of the 21st century?” he said.
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights Regional Representative Heike Alefsen said the review was crucial for modernising policing practices.
“The rise of cybercrime, digital evidence, surveillance tools, and artificial intelligence has completely transformed how crimes are committed and investigated,” Ms Alefsen said.
“Outdated laws that do not address digital evidence, forensic technology, or privacy safeguards leave both people and officers vulnerable.”
She stressed the need for the Act to embed human rights protections and align with international standards.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said reviewing the legislation was his top priority upon taking office.
“We cannot run this organisation in modern days and age if you don’t have legislation reviewed,” he said.
The review follows an eight-week nationwide consultation with communities, traditional leaders, and civil society organisations.
Mr Naivalurua wants the new Act tabled in Parliament before year’s end, though the tight timeline may push it to early 2026.
Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj
