The Fiji Police Force is stressing the importance of moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption, highlighting its potential to lead to severe consequences such as injury or death. This alert comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Waitolu, Naitasiri, where two men, aged 21 and 45, lost their lives following a road accident on Wednesday afternoon.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana, both individuals were reportedly intoxicated when they became involved in a dispute that spilled onto the roadway, ultimately leading to their being struck by a bus driven by a 30-year-old man. The younger victim was declared dead upon arrival at Vunidawa Hospital, while the older victim, who was later transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, succumbed to his injuries the following morning.
SSP Divuana emphasized that the tragic accident could have been prevented if the victims’ judgment had not been impaired by alcohol. He reiterated that excessive drinking poses a serious risk to all road users, affecting drivers, passengers, riders, and pedestrians alike.
“Be responsible. We cannot stress enough the need to be responsible and take accountability for your actions,” he urged. The loss of these two lives so close to the Christmas season has left two families grieving, reinforcing the urgency of the police’s ongoing warnings about alcohol’s dangers. The SSP pointed out that alcohol consumption significantly impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities, urging everyone to heed the advice presented by road safety stakeholders.
Despite the somber context, there is a glimmer of hope as Fiji’s national road death tally currently stands at 58, showing a decrease compared to 74 fatalities for the same period last year, suggesting that public awareness and preventative measures may be having a positive impact.
It is essential for communities to engage in conversations around safe drinking practices and road safety, particularly during festive seasons when celebrations often lead to increased alcohol consumption. By taking responsibility and prioritizing safety, we can work together to prevent further tragedies on the roads.
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