The Fiji Police Force is urging the public to exercise caution following the emergence of a social media post claiming that a group of individuals is injecting chemicals into fresh coconuts, or bu, in order to sedate homeowners and facilitate theft. The post includes an alarming image depicting several people lying on the ground with police officers in attendance, which has exacerbated public concern.
In response to the growing anxiety, Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations Livai Driu has called for residents to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could lead to unnecessary panic. He encouraged individuals to present their claims formally to the authorities for cleanup and verification rather than sharing them widely on social platforms.
Driu stated, “We encourage the sharing of information via platforms made public whereby information shared will be kept confidential, so issues can be verified.” He stressed the importance of verification before the police can take any further action regarding the allegations.
He emphasized that the Fiji Police would share credible information with the community if any concerning trends were confirmed. The police have provided several official channels for individuals to report any suspicious activity, including Crime Stoppers (919) and the Serious Organised Crime & Intelligence Department (SOCID), along with direct phone numbers for key department officials.
The Fiji Police Force reiterated the importance of verifying information before dissemination to prevent miscommunication and panic. They assured the public that should any real pattern of criminal behavior emerge, they would promptly inform the community in a clear and transparent manner.
In the meantime, authorities are urging everyone to stay vigilant and report any concerning behavior or incidents directly to the police.
This situation serves as a reminder of the power of social media in shaping public perception and underscores the need for responsible sharing of information. The proactive stance of the Fiji Police encourages community safety while promoting a culture of verification and transparency.
Overall, while the current circumstances may seem alarming, the effective communication by the police and the community’s vigilance can help maintain safety and peace.
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