Fiji Corrections Service launches 'Operation Solesolevaki' under Yellow Ribbon Program

A new initiative has been launched by the Fiji Corrections Service under its Yellow Ribbon Program.

This is part of Yellow Ribbon program's continuous effort to improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation of ex-offenders to help them reintegrate into society.

'Operation Solesolevaki' is aimed at re-establishing the relationship between the vanua, church and general community to partner and network in a consolidated effort to restore the life of inmates who are often rejects of society.

This initiative which is undertaken in five phases has already been piloted in the Southern, Western and Northern Division only for those serving a two-year prison term or less.

Supervisors in facilities around the country have been asked to identify suitable inmates who are fit for this program.

Fiji Corrections Service Chaplain, Josefa Tikonatabua says an assessment is made first to identify land for farming before community engagement is involved where they will work on reconciling the inmates with families and members of the community.

Behaviour of these inmates will be closely monitored and if the superiors are satisfied, they will be allowed on weekend release to continue work on their farms and be monitored by the village headmen or church leaders.

This will continue until the inmates are discharged and returned to the community.

Deputy Commissioner of Corrections, Jo Kulinidilo says the Fiji Corrections Service will continue to seek for engagement with the community in giving ex-offenders a second chance at life.