The Penal Code of Fiji has been replaced by the Crimes Promulgation and a new sentencing and penalties decree has also been approved by the government.
Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the Crimes promulgation brings about ground breaking provisions in the criminal justice system in Fiji and modernizes and reforms all laws in Fiji.
Penal Code replaced by Crimes Promulgation
Sayed-Khaiyum said the promulgation extends the jurisdiction of the Courts in Fiji.
There is also the introduction of new crimes based on communication technology.
Another major change is relating to crimes involving prostitution. Sayed-Khaiyum said those seeking services of prostitutes can now be prosecuted.
Under the sentencing decree, harsher penalties will be handed down for crimes such as sacrilege while Judges and Magistrates will be given set guidelines to ensure consistency in handing down sentences for various offences.
The Attorney General said the training of the relevant law enforcement agencies, Judges and Magistrates will get underway soon and they intend to implement the new laws from February 2010.
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Penal Code replaced by Crimes Promulgation
