A recent statement from Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka highlighted how the malfunctioning of closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras can hinder police investigations. The Northern Command Centre relies on CCTVs positioned in various locations throughout Labasa Town to monitor potential criminal activities.
SSP Baledrokadroka emphasized that while the police make significant efforts to collect information, technical issues can sometimes delay the investigation process. Referring to a recent incident involving the assault of a taxi driver in Labasa Town on September 3, he noted that CCTV footage was instrumental in the arrest of the suspect the following Wednesday.
The victim, 31-year-old taxi driver Aiyaz Din Mohammed, sustained facial injuries during the alleged assault. SSP Baledrokadroka urged local businesses to install CCTV cameras, which would not only enhance their security but also assist police in gathering essential information.
He called for more collaboration between the public and police in sharing information about crime suspects. Mahen Prasad, chairman of the Labasa Taxi Association, echoed the need for heightened vigilance from law enforcement, particularly traffic officers, to prevent such incidents from happening again.
Prasad pointed out that while the police maintain surveillance, taxi drivers are encouraged to report illegal “pirate” taxi operators who run private vehicles as taxis without the necessary permits. He noted that many individuals in Labasa engage in this illegal activity, urging that it must come to an end.