The Fiji Police Force is urging the public to remain cautious following the emergence of a concerning social media post. This post claims that a group of youths has been injecting chemicals into fresh coconuts, also known as bu, to sedate homeowners and facilitate robberies.
The alarming image circulated alongside these claims depicts several individuals lying on the ground, with police officers present. In response to this situation, Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations, Livai Driu, has called on the public to refrain from disseminating unverified information that may incite fear or panic within the community.
Driu appealed to anyone sharing such posts to ensure their claims are substantiated and reported to the appropriate authorities for verification. He stated, “We endorse the sharing of information through public channels where it can be kept confidential, allowing concerns to be addressed accurately.”
The police have identified the need for verification of such claims prior to taking definitive action. Driu reassured the public that the Fiji Police Force would communicate any confirmed patterns of criminal behavior swiftly and transparently.
In light of these developments, the police have encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity through official channels, which include Crime Stoppers at 919, the Serious Organised Crime & Intelligence Department (SOCID) at 3370012, and the SOCID Director at 9904923 or Deputy Director at 9906881.
The police also reminded everyone to be cautious when sharing information on social media, emphasizing the importance of communicating only verified content to avoid unnecessary alarm. They reiterated their commitment to keeping the public informed should any significant trends arise.
In essence, the message is clear: while vigilance is critical, it is equally important to verify information before sharing it to maintain community safety and peace of mind amid speculation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with social media. By prioritizing verified information, we can collectively combat the spread of misinformation and foster a safer community environment.
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