The Fiji Police Force is actively investigating two separate incidents involving crew members from a foreign airline who were reportedly robbed and sexually assaulted at a nightclub in Nadi during the early hours of yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, addressed the situation, expressing his concerns for the victims and calling the incidents regrettable.
Gavoka clarified that the two incidents involved different crew members; one incident is related to theft while the other pertains to sexual assault. He mentioned that a suspect known to the police has already been questioned regarding the sexual assault.
Moreover, Gavoka refuted claims made by some international media outlets that suggested the crew members were being “detained.” He confirmed that the crew is safe, healthy, and staying in a designated hotel for layovers. They have been instructed by their headquarters to remain close to the hotel to assist with the ongoing police investigation and are expected to return home by the end of the week.
The Deputy Prime Minister appealed to international media to be prudent in their reporting and to avoid sensationalizing the situation without verifying facts. He acknowledged that while unfortunate, such incidents can occur anywhere, including Fiji, and urged tourists to exercise caution when visiting nightclubs, especially late at night.
This incident highlights the importance of safety in tourist areas and serves as a reminder for both locals and visitors to remain vigilant, particularly in nightlife settings. It is crucial for communities to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.
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