Roneel Sami, the president of nightclub operators in Nadi and owner of Ice-Bar, has called for a reassessment of regulations governing nightclubs to enhance patron safety. His comments follow a troubling incident involving three Australian airline crew members who were reportedly victims of theft and sexual assault at a Martintar nightclub.
Mr. Sami emphasized the need for collaboration between nightclub operators, government authorities, and other stakeholders to address these safety concerns. He remarked on the negative impact such incidents can have on Fiji’s tourism reputation, stating, “The incident has unfortunately painted a negative image for tourism in Fiji.”
Highlighting systemic issues, Mr. Sami noted that the early closing time of nightclubs, currently at 1 am, causes large groups to gather outside, creating potentially risky situations. “When nightclubs operated until 5 am, people had better control over their departure times and could find taxis more easily,” he explained.
He also pointed out the lack of adequate parking facilities for the 14 nightclubs in the area, forcing patrons to walk in poorly lit streets while searching for transportation. This situation was believed to contribute to the vulnerability of the victims on the night of the incident. He stressed that proper nightclubs should provide a safe and controlled environment for socializing, unlike the chaotic scene that outdoor areas can become.
Additionally, Mr. Sami criticized the limited police presence around nightclubs after hours, highlighting how the combination of poor parking options and inadequate security significantly heightens risks for patrons.
In response to these concerns, Saliceni Raiwalui, Chair of the Nadi Town Council’s Special Administrator, acknowledged the incident and expressed sympathies for the victims. He remarked, “This incident has been a wake-up call for all of us to reassess our measures for the safety of tourists and locals alike,” reinforcing the council’s commitment to enhancing safety protocols.
This unfortunate incident underlines the need for proactive changes in nightlife regulations that can ensure a safer environment for both locals and visitors, fostering a more positive atmosphere for Fiji’s vibrant tourism sector. By taking these recommendations seriously, stakeholders can work towards restoring confidence in Nadi’s nightlife.
Overall, the incident, while tragic, serves as an opportunity for collective improvement and enhanced safety standards that can benefit everyone involved.
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