The towns of Labasa and Savusavu in Vanua Levu are facing significant challenges as mentally ill individuals increasingly become a public disturbance. Many of these individuals are homeless or have been abandoned by their families, leading them to inhabit the streets, often sleeping in doorways and using public spaces for sanitation.
In some cases, their presence poses risks to traffic as they often direct vehicles or follow tourists, causing distress among visitors. Business owners are particularly alarmed about safety concerns as the problem escalates. Paul Jaduram, the chairperson of the Labasa Town Council and president of the Macuata Tourism Association, noted that this issue has persisted for several years.
“There were instances when I had to call Labasa Police because a mentally challenged individual was sleeping outside a shop,” Mr. Jaduram stated. “Every time the police remove them, they return to the same location. Authorities need to conduct proper assessments of these individuals.”
He proposed that those diagnosed with mental illnesses and lacking family support be referred to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital, while homeless individuals who are mentally stable could be accommodated at the Golden Age Home. “This problem is escalating, and many business operators and customers no longer feel secure,” he warned.
In response, police in Labasa have stepped in to assist, providing food, clothing, and temporary shelter. However, the individuals frequently return to the streets. Many do not adhere to their prescribed medications, and police emphasize the importance of family support in their care.
Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka acknowledged the situation, urging families to take responsibility. “Some of these individuals receive social welfare benefits, but their relatives are not taking care of them. These families need to step up,” SSP Baledrokadroka said. He added that official complaints are necessary for the police to act and address any offenses committed by these individuals, reminding everyone that they are human beings in need of care.
Savusavu is experiencing similar challenges, with special administrator chairperson Shiu Shankar Singh voicing frustrations over the disruptions caused by mentally ill individuals, including incidents of harassing tourists. “Tourists have reported feeling unsafe as some individuals follow them around the market,” Mr. Singh noted. He called for collaboration among relevant authorities to find solutions, particularly as the festive season approaches.
Mr. Singh mentioned that business operators have struggled to receive effective police intervention. “When these individuals threaten vendors or use foul language in public, nothing is done unless we file official complaints,” he explained.
The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection was contacted for comment but did not respond. With the holiday season approaching, there is a pressing call from businesses and law enforcement for urgent action to tackle this escalating crisis, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to ensure vulnerable individuals are not left to fend for themselves on the streets.
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