Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu yesterday officially opened two regional programs under the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police (PICP) initiative, designed to enhance cyber investigation capabilities among Pacific law enforcement agencies.

Held at the Holiday Inn in Suva, the training is part of the Cyber Safety Pasifika initiative, delivered with the support of the Australian Federal Police (AFP). It brings together officers from the Fiji Police Force, Vanuatu Police Force, and American Samoa, with additional presenters from Samoa, Tonga, and other Pacific law enforcement services.

Commissioner Tudravu emphasized the increasing relevance of cybercrime prevention, stressing that the rapid pace of technological advancement must be matched by stronger awareness and preparedness within law enforcement.

“Cybercriminals prey on people’s innocence and lack of understanding,” he said. “While we cannot stop technological progress, we must ramp up public and police awareness, because prevention is always better than cure.”

He pointed out that law enforcement agencies are now dealing with more complex and sophisticated crimes due to increased connectivity and digital reliance, calling for greater digital literacy among communities.

“It’s a sad reality that our lives are increasingly dictated by our virtual presence. Over-reliance on technology becomes dangerous when our communities lack the basic understanding of online safety,” he said.

The Commissioner also acknowledged the continued support of the Australian Federal Police in strengthening regional cybercrime initiatives and building local capacity through partnerships such as the Cyber Safety Pasifika program.

The two programs running concurrently include:

Cyber Awareness and Education Community Training (20–23 May 2025)

Cybercrime Investigation Foundation Program (21–28 May 2025)

Both initiatives aim to build operational readiness and community engagement around digital safety in the Pacific region.