A recent spike in vehicle and boat thefts at Bau Landing has left residents of Bau Island and neighboring communities feeling increasingly vulnerable. The wave of criminal activity has raised concerns about property and personal safety in the area.
In January, the situation took a turn for the worse when thieves stole a fiberglass boat, a 40-horsepower outboard engine, and three fuel tanks, along with breaking into several vehicles. The crime spree persisted into February, highlighted by a disturbing incident where a car was stripped of all four wheels.
Local leader Turaga na Tunitoga, Ratu Aisea Komaitai, recounted a recent attempted theft where robbers targeted his car’s tires but were unsuccessful. He emphasized the importance of Bau Landing, which serves as a vital transit hub for surrounding communities, including Viwa, Nakoroivau, and Namuka.
Ratu Aisea expressed his frustration with what he perceives as government inaction on the matter, having lobbied for a police post at Bau Landing for years. “We have been asking for a police post here, but it falls on deaf ears. It’s been years of car theft, boat theft, and robbery,” he lamented.
In response to the escalating crime, Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro announced that a working group had been formed to explore potential solutions. Plans are underway to consider establishing a Water Police base, implementing CCTV surveillance, and improving mobile coverage in the area.
This proactive approach aims to address the safety concerns of residents and restore a sense of security in Bau Landing, showcasing a commitment to tackling these pressing issues. As communities rally for support, there is hope that effective measures will soon be put in place to curb the ongoing thefts and enhance public safety.
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