Experts train officer to protect innocent from digital predators

Officials from the Interpol Action on Cybercrime Extended are in the country conducting an e-Evidence First Responders Training in the Western Division. The International Criminal Police Organisation –commonly known as Interpol, is an international organisation that facilitates worldwide police cooperation and crime control. It is the world’s largest international police organisation based in Lyon, France

The purpose of the training at Nadi Police Station is to triage among different types of crimes committed in digital environments and possible electronic evidence relevant to crime.

Upon completion of the training, officers will enhance their knowledge of recognising the different characteristics of electronic devices.

They will be able to apply proper principles of processing the data contained within and collect the relevant data while preserving the integrity of the data as evidence.

The workshop was officially opened by the Acting Divisional Police Commander West (DPCW) Acting Senior Superintendent of Police (A/SSP)

Aisake Kafoa .

He said the exponential growth of cybercrimes poses a serious threat to the security and well-being of individuals, organisations and even nations.

That is why we are here today, united in our commitment to stay one step ahead of these criminal activities and to protect the innocent from these digital predators”.

A/SSP Kafoa acknowledged Interpol’s support for the training opportunity towards enhancing Fijian officers skills and knowledge of how to handle e-evidence effectively.

“As first responders, we play a vital role in preserving digital evidence, ensuring its integrity, and ultimately, in bringing perpetrators to justice,” he said.

“The importance of our work cannot be overstated, as the pursuit of justice in the cyber realm requires cutting-edge technological expertise combined with a deep understanding of legal procedures”.

Participants include front-line police officers who perform immediate action when receiving a complaint, officers directly involved in cybercrimes, as well as officers who respond to crime scenes where electronic devices may be present.