Police are investigating reports of individuals gathering to consume alcohol and engage in illegal activities on vacant land located along Vesi Crescent in the Waiyavi Industrial Area of Lautoka. The concerns were primarily raised by local businesses, which have noted that the site, featuring a dilapidated shelter, has increasingly attracted problematic behavior.
According to police spokesperson Ana Naisoro, two officers were dispatched to the area in response to the complaint; however, by the time they arrived, the individuals had already departed. Naisoro stated that the Divisional Police Commander for the West has instructed the officer-in-charge in Lautoka to identify the owner of the property and engage the town council in discussions on how to secure the site to discourage its use for illicit activities.
Ashika Kumar, the executive director of Mannat Investments Pte Ltd, claimed that the vacant land is owned by a pest control company. She expressed concern that the area has turned into a hotspot for individuals consuming alcohol and smoking openly, even during the day, making her staff feel unsafe while reporting to work early. The situation is compounded by reported incidents of aggressive behavior occurring at the site.
Efforts to get a response from the pest control company’s executive director regarding the allegations have gone unanswered. The police and local authorities are now working to address the growing concern and improve safety for nearby businesses and their employees. The community remains hopeful that effective measures will be taken to secure the area, ultimately reducing instances of unlawful activities and ensuring a safer environment for all.
Leave a comment