Criminal investigation officers of the Police Force have been challenged to be more professional in their investigation processes to ensure effective prosecution.
The 25 officers are part of an Advanced Criminal Investigation Course to be held over a four-week period at the Fiji Police Academy in Nasova.
Officers’ started training this week with a challenge from the Commissioner of Police Brigadier General Ioane Naivalurua to properly and with thoroughness investigate cases before the final battle is waged in court.
“The huge challenge that exists in the force is that we are not fighting our battles well,” Mr Naivalurua said.
“So you must do the preparation well, look at all the issues that need to be covered and established during the investigations before you pass of the file for prosecution.
“The ultimate measure of successful investigation is successful prosecution in court.
“But you need to adhere to the work ethos and values as you carry out your investigations, you must work honestly, exercise justice, determine the credibility of your investigation and ensure that justice is exercised at the end of the day.”
Training of officers are strategically aligned to an objective of the force to become operationally effective and efficient.
School of Intelligence and Investigations head Assistant Superintendent Malakai Kivarua said the content of the course covered work that would enhance the capabilities of investigation officers in managing various types of investigations.
It will also up-skill and prepare investigation officers to be well poised to deal with investigations into new trends of sophisticated crimes like cyber crimes, human trafficking and drug trafficking.
Seven advanced courses for CID officers have been carried out since 1997.
An important aspect, leadership lessons, is incorporated into the course and designed to equip the officers to lead teams of investigations.
Ultimately, improved standards of investigations and higher litigation success rate are expected outcomes of investments in training.
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