Junior police officers require more training to effectively handle domestic violence cases.
Fiji Police Force Sexual Offences Investigator Vani Rogoimuri highlighted this during a regional training program hosted by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, where she emphasised that this training should begin during the police recruitment process so that new officers are well-equipped to deal with domestic violence from the outset.
Rogoimuri says junior officers often struggle to report domestic violence cases due to a lack of knowledge, noting that many do not take such matters seriously.
The 50-year-old says increased training for the Police Force would enhance officers’ understanding, particularly when dealing with these issues on the ground.
FWCC Coordinator Shamima Ali says the training addresses life-and-death matters, including violence, gender equality, and the proper handling of such issues.
She says the program covers a wide range of topics, including gender roles, domestic violence, and community response strategies.
Ali adds that by training women from across the Pacific, they will be empowered to return home as trainers themselves and help spread awareness throughout their communities.
