The Cabinet has approved the National Crime Prevention Policy, a first of its kind for the country to combat the rising tide of crime in Samoa.

This policy aims to strengthen and streamline strategies, systems, and programs designed to prevent criminal activity and ensure the safety of all Samoans.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa emphasised the vital importance of the policy, calling it a national and communal approach to addressing crime in the nation. 

“This policy is crucial in tackling the increasing crime rates we are seeing. It is a comprehensive effort that brings together various stakeholders, from the government to the private sector, village councils and churches, to collectively reduce crime and improve public safety,” Fiame stated.

Developed under the leadership of the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration, the National Crime Prevention Policy focuses on strengthening existing legislative frameworks, enforcing laws more effectively, and introducing new measures to prevent crimes from occurring in the first place. 

A key component of the policy involves reviewing current legislation to enhance enforcement and statutory penalties for offenders. 

This review will ensure that Samoa’s laws are robust enough to address modern-day challenges and prevent criminal behaviour.

The policy also emphasises the need for targeted counselling and educational programs tailored to crime prevention. These initiatives aim to raise public awareness of the laws and the consequences of breaking them. 

“One of the most important aspects of this policy is its focus on public education. We want to ensure that Samoans are not only aware of the laws but also understand them so they can avoid committing crimes,” Fiame explained.

Additionally, the policy outlines the necessity of providing support for crime victims and offering assistance to help rehabilitate offenders. 

It calls for a coordinated response to different types of crime, ensuring that services are in place to address each case appropriately. “This policy is about more than just enforcement; it’s about creating an environment where crime prevention is ingrained in our society and where individuals can get the help they need, whether they are victims or perpetrators,” Fiame added.

The success of this policy, however, depends on more than just government action. Fiame highlighted the need for national participation and collective commitment. “This is not a job for the government alone. The success of this policy will depend on everyone working together—government agencies, private businesses, non-governmental organisations, civil society, churches, and village councils,” she stressed. 

The Prime Minister called for a united front from all sectors of society to combat crime effectively.

The policy also aims to increase collaboration across various sectors to enhance community-driven crime prevention efforts. 

By strengthening partnerships between the government, private entities, and the community, the National Crime Prevention Policy lays the foundation for a safer Samoa. “The community plays a vital role in preventing crime. This is a communal obligation, and everyone must contribute to making our country safer for our families and future generations,” Fiame concluded.