The Fiji Police Force is currently looking into serious allegations involving crew members from a foreign airline who were reportedly robbed and sexually assaulted at a nightclub in Nadi during the early hours yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, expressed his concerns and sympathy for the victims, labeling these alleged incidents as regrettable.
Gavoka detailed that there were two separate incidents: one involving theft and the other concerning sexual assault, with distinct crew members affected in each case. Authorities have already questioned a suspect known to police in relation to the sexual assault allegations.
In response to various international media reports claiming that the crew members were being “detained,” Gavoka clarified that these claims are unfounded. The crew members are in good health and are currently staying at a local hotel designated for crew layovers. They have also been advised by their headquarters to remain within the hotel premises to ensure they are reachable for the ongoing police investigation, with plans to return home by the end of this week.
Gavoka urged international media to report responsibly and avoid sensationalism surrounding such incidents without verified facts. He acknowledged that while Fiji is a safe destination, unfortunate events like these can occur anywhere, reminding both residents and tourists to exercise caution, particularly in nightlife settings.
This situation highlights the need for vigilance and awareness, ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors. As investigations continue, it is hopeful that the authorities will successfully address these incidents and reinforce the message that safety is a priority in Fiji.
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