Iliesa Toga, a retired soldier and security guard, has expressed his heartfelt appreciation following an outpouring of support from Fijians around the globe after his involvement in a car accident that gained widespread attention online. A video that captured Mr. Toga’s humble reaction resonated with many viewers worldwide.
The incident occurred on October 18, at approximately 7:55 PM, when Mr. Toga reportedly collided with a car driven by Bhavik Verma in Narere, Nasinu. In the viral footage, Mr. Toga was seen apologizing profusely and offering to cover the damages, oblivious to the fact that he was being recorded. He was seen clasping his hands and expressing regret, and during their conversation, Mr. Verma initially requested a payment of $500, while Mr. Toga estimated the damages to be around $200. Mr. Toga explained he agreed to pay $100 upfront and intended to pay the remaining $100 the following day.
The compassionate response to the video has been overwhelming. As of November 12, Mr. Toga received donations totaling $3,347.38 via M-Paisa from Fijians living worldwide, highlighting the kindness of his fellow citizens. Expressing his gratitude in Fijian, Mr. Toga said, “Au vakavinavinaka saka,” thanking supporters from the UK, US, New Zealand, Australia, and Europe for their generosity, emphasizing that love can overcome any challenge.
Despite the widespread support, Mr. Toga has faced difficulties, including reported threats directed at Mr. Verma’s family on social media following the video’s release. Mr. Toga has urged people to embrace forgiveness, asserting, “violence solves nothing.” He has filed a police report regarding the threats at the Samabula Police Station, though there have been no official updates from the authorities.
Mr. Verma, who posted the video on Fijian Memes Hub, stated that his intentions were solely to identify Mr. Toga, but things escalated from there. He noted that attempts to reach Mr. Toga received no response. Meanwhile, Mr. Verma’s father, Sanjay, expressed concern about their family’s safety, requesting increased police patrols around their area.
Support for Mr. Toga has also included moral backing, with individuals like Dinesh Lal providing donations and expressing sympathy for Mr. Toga’s treatment. Mechanic Deo Kumar even offered his services for free, stating that “no one deserves that kind of treatment.”
As Mr. Toga considers legal action against Mr. Verma for defamation, he has decided to hold off on paying the remaining $100 until the situation is resolved. Nevertheless, he remains moved by the incredible kindness shown by the Fiji community. Additionally, Geraldine Panapasa, a media liaison for the Land Transport Authority, has underscored the importance of the “Drive Safe, Celebrate Responsibly” campaign to promote safe driving practices during the festive season.
This incident has not only highlighted the deep compassion of individuals stepping up to support one another in times of need but also sheds light on the importance of acknowledging the consequences of our actions and fostering understanding in tense situations.
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