Crime Wave Sweeps Through Fiji: Organized Criminal Actors Terrorize Islands

A worrying trend is emerging in Fiji, as criminal activity spreads across the islands, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. From remote villages to densely populated urban areas, the scourge of crime is affecting all corners of the country.

Organized Crime Groups

According to reports, organized crime groups of Chinese origin are the primary foreign actors involved in illegal activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution. These criminal syndicates have set up shop in Fiji, exploiting vulnerable individuals and perpetuating a culture of fear and violence.

• Other criminal groups also involved:
  • Latin American cartels
  • Australian OMCGs (Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs)
  • State actors accused of facilitating human trafficking

Leadership and Governance Under Scrutiny

Fiji’s political leadership has come under fire for its commitment to fighting organized crime. With three democratic elections since the 2006 coup, some experts have questioned the integrity of the country’s political system.

• International observers report:
  • Limited participation by civil society organizations in the 2014 election
  • Human rights concerns over interference with opposition activities

Criminal Justice System in Crisis

Fiji’s criminal justice system is struggling to cope with the surge in organized crime. The country’s prisons are overcrowded and poorly maintained, with reports of abuse and neglect among inmates.

• Police force under-resourced:
  • Lack of training and resources for handling human trafficking cases
• Government initiatives shrouded in secrecy:
  • Units aimed at supporting victims and witnesses

Economic and Financial Environment Under Threat

Fiji’s financial and real estate sectors are vulnerable to money laundering, with hundreds of millions of Fijian dollars believed to be laundered through financial institutions each year.

• Progress made in addressing anti-money laundering deficiencies
• Economy remains vulnerable to crime

Civil Society and Social Protection in Crisis

Victims of crime in Fiji lack adequate assistance, with many reporting that they have been left without support or resources.

• Government failures:
  • Failure to provide services to victims of human trafficking
  • Limited success in public awareness campaigns against forced labor and sexual exploitation
• Lack of awareness about drugs is a major concern

Journalists Face Intimidation and Imprisonment

Fiji has been ranked as the worst nation in the Pacific for journalists, with restrictive laws and regulations in place.

• Risk of imprisonment for up to two years for violating these laws
• Self-censorship and avoidance of reporting on sensitive topics

Despite these challenges, civil society groups operate relatively effectively, with partnerships between local communities, faith-based organizations, and business operators contributing to reduce overall crime rates. However, the government’s restrictive sedition laws limit the initiatives that CSOs can undertake.