Police are currently looking into a reported forced eviction incident that occurred in Lovu Seaside, Lautoka. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa confirmed that a complaint has been lodged by tenant Sofia Farzana, alleging that her landlord compelled her to leave her residence.

Ms. Farzana, a mother of two, shared a video on social media that illustrates individuals, purportedly connected to the landownership, tearing down her property’s fencing and greenery while insisting on her evacuation.

Within the video, a man accuses Ms. Farzana’s family of improperly selling the land without obtaining proper consent from the landowner. He requested documentation proving that she holds a lease title for the property. Ms. Farzana asserts that the land was purchased by her grandmother in 1998, and the title was legally transferred to her before her grandmother’s recent passing.

“I was born here. I was raised by my grandmother. She acquired this land and established this home, transferring ownership to me,” Ms. Farzana stated. Furthermore, she reported that the landowners are demanding $15,000 to repurchase the land, adding, “They said if we want to stay here, we must buy the land again with a new title. Where do we get the money? My husband is a struggling chef. This is a degrading and humiliating experience for me and my two little children.”

SSP Vaisewa confirmed that the investigation into this matter is currently underway.

This situation highlights serious concerns regarding property rights and the emotional toll such disputes place on families. It is important for both parties to seek a resolution that is fair and just, protecting the rights of long-time inhabitants like Ms. Farzana while also respecting the legitimate concerns of landowners. Hopefully, as the investigation proceeds, a solution can be reached that allows Ms. Farzana and her children to remain in their home, providing stability during these challenging times.