The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) is intensifying its collaboration with local police and stakeholders to enhance safety for both residents and tourists in Nadi. This initiative was driven by calls from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, for increased security in the area following a distressing incident in which foreign airline employees were reportedly attacked and robbed in Martintar.

NCCI President, Dr. Ram Raju, highlighted the urgency of this matter during discussions with police officials, asserting that recent events serve as a critical wake-up call. He expressed concern about the inadequacies in police resources, remarking that there are only two vehicles available at the Nadi Police Station, which significantly hampers their ability to respond effectively.

Dr. Raju is urging the government to provide the necessary manpower and equipment for the police force. He noted that Nadi’s contributions to national development are not commensurately reflected in the public safety resources available. A notable signal of this would be the postponement of a $10 million investment in local development projects by a concerned NCCI member, which illustrates how intertwined issues of security and economic growth truly are.

Moreover, the NCCI is addressing ongoing problems such as the harassment of tourists by certain vendors, which further exacerbates the negative perception of safety in Nadi. Dr. Raju mentioned that efforts will continue to engage local police to bolster preventive measures and restore a sense of security within the business and tourist community.

The proactive efforts by the NCCI and local authorities offer a hopeful outlook for Nadi. By enhancing safety measures, they aim to not only protect individuals but also to restore confidence among business leaders and investors, attracting new investments and fostering economic growth.

In summary, the concerted efforts between the NCCI and police reflect a solid commitment to ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for visitors and residents alike, thereby safeguarding Nadi’s reputation as a key tourism destination in the South Pacific. With the right resources dedicated to security, the community can move towards a more prosperous and secure future.