A 75-year-old woman, Latchmama, is recovering at Labasa Hospital after being violently assaulted in her home. Her daughter, Vandhana Goundar, shared her distress over the incident, which she learned about on Sunday night, prompting her to travel from Nadi to be by her mother’s side.
Goundar described the scene when she saw her mother, noting the severe injuries, including cuts to her forehead and bruising around her eyes. She indicated that her mother was suffering from internal injuries that caused blood to flow from her nose when she moved. Despite the traumatic event, Goundar expressed gratitude towards a neighbor who promptly took Latchmama to the hospital for treatment.
Concerns have been raised about the safety of elderly Indo-Fijians in the community, as this incident follows a recent violent attack on another elderly Indian man in Labasa. Goundar criticized the authorities, stating that the lack of timely police response to her mother’s situation highlights serious security issues in Fiji.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, reported that an 18-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with the assault and robbery, which included the theft of liquor and cash. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities search for additional suspects. Fortunately, Latchmama’s condition has stabilized.
This troubling incident highlights the urgent need for community safety measures to protect vulnerable populations like the elderly, while also prompting calls for the police and government to enhance their efforts in tackling crime in the region. There is a growing sentiment among citizens that greater action is necessary to ensure the safety of all community members, especially those who have dedicated their lives to serving others. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that justice will be served and that measures will be taken to prevent such attacks in the future.
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