The towns of Labasa and Savusavu on Vanua Levu are facing significant challenges due to the presence of mentally ill individuals, who are becoming a public nuisance. Many of these individuals have no homes or are estranged from their families, leading them to roam the streets, seek shelter in doorways, and relieve themselves in public areas.
Some of these individuals pose traffic hazards by directing vehicles in busy areas or following tourists, instilling fear among visitors. Business owners are increasingly concerned about safety as the situation deteriorates. Paul Jaduram, chairperson of the Labasa Town Council and president of the Macuata Tourism Association, highlighted that this issue has persisted for several years. He recounted incidents where he had to involve the police when mentally ill individuals were found sleeping outside shops. Despite police interventions, these individuals often return to the same locations, prompting the call for proper assessment and support from authorities.
Jaduram suggested that those diagnosed with mental health issues, particularly those without family support, should be referred to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital, while mentally stable homeless individuals could be accommodated at the Golden Age Home. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that both business operators and customers are feeling increasingly unsafe.
In response, police in Labasa have attempted to provide assistance by offering food, clothing, and temporary shelter to these individuals. However, many return to the streets, often neglecting their prescribed medications. Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka expressed the importance of family involvement in caring for these individuals. He mentioned that some are beneficiaries of social welfare programs and pointed out that their families should assume responsibility for their welfare. He urged that official complaints are necessary for law enforcement to address any offenses committed by these individuals.
Savusavu is experiencing similar predicaments. Shiu Shankar Singh, the special administrator chairperson, voiced frustration over the disruptions caused by mentally ill individuals who harass tourists and create traffic issues. He called for collaboration among relevant authorities to devise solutions, especially as the festive season approaches. Singh noted that businesses have struggled to receive adequate police support despite several troubling incidents involving mentally ill individuals.
Attempts to obtain comments from the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection were unsuccessful. With the holiday season nearing, both businesses and law enforcement are advocating for urgent action to tackle this growing crisis, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to ensure vulnerable individuals do not remain on the streets.
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