A 31-year-old farmer is in police custody after allegedly using social media to harm and publicly humiliate individuals.
The suspect was arrested last night in Martintar, Nadi, after the Criminal Investigation Department’s (CID) Cybercrime Unit traced his online activity.
Police were acting on a complaint lodged at the CID Headquarters in Suva, and the arrest was carried out with the assistance of Namaka Police.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu issued a stern warning to social media users: the Fiji Police Force now has the capabilities to trace and locate individuals who engage in harmful online behaviour.
“We now have the tools and expertise to find those who spread hatred and harmful messages online,” said Mr Tudravu.
“I urge everyone to be mindful and think before they post. Respect other users — because we will not take online abuse lightly.”
He further reminded the public that freedom of speech comes with responsibility.
“I am urging social media users to act responsibly and sensibly when exercising their rights to freedom of speech and expression, as they are subjected to limitations,” he added.
Police say they are working closely with the Online Safety Commission to promote a safer digital environment for all Fijians.
