A noticeable uptick in serious and fatal road accidents has led law enforcement to implement enhanced safety measures in the Western Division, particularly during the busy Christmas and New Year holiday period. Authorities mobilized fewer than 100 officers from Suva to bolster visibility and public safety in identified high-risk areas.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Kasiano Vusonilawe, highlighted that the deployment was informed by a year-long analysis of crime and accident trends, allowing police to pinpoint areas requiring heightened attention. He noted, “The strategy was to be there before they come to the area like Wailolaloa Beach. When they finish clubbing, they usually go down to those areas and continue their drinking. So before clubbing is over, the officers were already there.”
The police initiative also focused on monitoring illegal alcohol sales. Efforts were made to shut down unlicensed sellers and ensure that licensed establishments adhered to closing times by midnight. “We were aggressive in terms of black markets and the bootleggers,” Vusonilawe stated. “We stopped those so that minor offenses do not lead to more serious issues.”
Public response to the increased police presence has been largely positive, with many residents expressing that the visible enforcement acted as a deterrent against potential criminal activities, contributing to a safer nightlife in Nadi. Despite the increased law enforcement presence, concerns about fatal road accidents persisted during the festive period, highlighting the ongoing challenges the police face.
Vusonilawe emphasized the importance of maintaining community trust through consistent service, stating that building this relationship is essential for ongoing crime prevention initiatives. The efforts made during the holiday season reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding public safety and fostering a collaborative environment between the police and the community, which is hopeful for future festive periods.
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