The Fiji Police Force have recorded an overall increase in crime by 19 percent in November when compared to the same period last year.

Serious crime increased by 10 percent, crimes against Women increased by 22 percent, detection rate was 64 percent while the crime against children recorded a decrease of 9 percent.

In the overall crime and crime against women categories, the Eastern division recorded a decrease, while the rest of the divisions recorded increases.

In the serious crime and crime against children’s categories, the Southern, Eastern, and Northern divisions recorded decreases, while the rest of the divisions recorded increases.

There were 101 cases of crimes against Children where 49 were girls and 52 were boys.

Off the recorded cases, 50 percent were assault-related, 40 percent were sexual offences and 10 percent were linked to other offences.

A total of 8 police officers were charged with a range of offences including assault causing actual bodily harm, Criminal intimidation, Making off without payment, sexual assaults and unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew says the Festive Season Operation is already underway, and the Fiji Police Force will continue to engage with stakeholders for safer communities.