The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) is taking significant measures to bolster safety for both residents and tourists in Nadi. This initiative comes in response to heightened security concerns following a recent alarming incident where foreign airline employees were reportedly attacked and robbed in the Martintar area. NCCI President Dr. Ram Raju underscored the essential nature of collaboration with the Fiji Police and other relevant stakeholders to mitigate such risks effectively.

In light of these events, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has called for enhanced security, leading to a proactive stance from the NCCI. Dr. Raju described the recent incident as a wake-up call for the community, highlighting the critical shortfalls in resources faced by local law enforcement, including a stark shortage of operational vehicles—only two currently in service at the Nadi Police Station. He is urging the government to address these urgent needs, arguing that Nadi’s vital contributions to national development require a corresponding level of public safety resources.

Dr. Raju also emphasized the detrimental impact of ongoing security issues on investor confidence, noting that at least one prominent NCCI member has postponed a substantial $10 million investment project due to concerns about safety. This delay serves as a testament to the strong correlation between safety and economic growth, highlighting the anxiety among the business community regarding the overall security situation.

In addition to addressing violent crime, the NCCI is focused on combating the harassment of tourists by unscrupulous vendors, which further threatens Nadi’s image as a prime tourism destination. The continuous efforts to engage local authorities and police aim to foster a more secure environment, ultimately restoring confidence among investors and travelers alike.

The enthusiastic approach taken by the NCCI conveys a hopeful outlook for the Nadi community. By prioritizing safety and improving collaboration with law enforcement, there is a genuine opportunity to reclaim Nadi’s status as a premier tourism hub in the South Pacific. These collective efforts signal not just a commitment to safety but also to fostering economic growth and stability for the benefit of all residents and visitors.

In summary, the NCCI’s advocacy for enhanced policing and community safety represents a significant step forward. With ongoing discussions and collaborative initiatives, the community aims to create a secure, welcoming environment that attracts both tourists and investors, paving the way for a prosperous future in Nadi.