The Fiji Police Force has issued a warning to the public in response to a social media post alleging that youths have been injecting chemicals into fresh coconuts, or “bu,” to induce sleep in homeowners for the purpose of robbery. This concerning image, which shows individuals lying on the ground with police officers present, has generated significant alarm among community members.
Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations, Livai Driu, emphasized the importance of not sharing unverified information that could incite fear. He strongly encouraged individuals disseminating such messages to bring them forward for proper verification by authorities.
Driu stated, “We encourage the sharing of information via platforms made public where the information can be kept confidential and verified.” He highlighted the need for caution when confronted with claims that have not been substantiated.
While the post in question suggests that a group is using chemicals in distributed coconuts to sedate residents, the police have clarified that they need to verify such reports before taking further action. “The Fiji Police would share information if there was a trend as such and we urge caution in disseminating unverified information that would create panic,” Driu added.
The Fiji Police Force is urging citizens to communicate any suspicious activity or relevant information through official channels, including:
– Crime Stoppers: 919
– Serious Organised Crime & Intelligence Department (SOCID): 3370012
– Director SOCID: 9904923
– Deputy Director SOCID: 9906881
The authorities reiterated the importance of caution in sharing information on social media, advocating that only verified facts be circulated to avert unnecessary fear. They assured the community that if any confirmed patterns of criminal activity arise, they would respond with timely and transparent updates.
In the meantime, the police encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior directly to the relevant authorities.
This situation underscores the need for responsible communication in the digital age. It reminds the public of their role in maintaining community safety while promoting cooperation with law enforcement to tackle any potential threats effectively. By choosing to verify information before sharing, individuals can contribute to a more secure environment for everyone.
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