Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) President Dr. Ram Raju has called on the Fiji government to enhance the capacity of the Fiji Police Force by improving their manpower and vehicle resources, particularly in Nadi, a key tourism hub. Dr. Raju pointed out that Nadi plays a pivotal role in national development but feels that the level of public security services currently available does not reflect this contribution.
This urgent call comes in the wake of a troubling incident where crew members from a foreign airline were attacked and robbed in Martintar, prompting concerns about the safety of both tourists and residents. Dr. Raju emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Chamber, the Police, and other stakeholders to ensure a secure environment for all.
He stated, “We have been meeting with senior officers at the Nadi and Namaka Police Stations regularly. The recent incident serves as a wake-up call to take decisive action to prevent similar occurrences in the future by equipping our security forces adequately.” Dr. Raju also acknowledged Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka’s assertion that the incident involving the foreign airline staff was an isolated case. However, he stressed the need to ensure such events do not reoccur, as they could damage Fiji’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
In light of the current safety concerns, Dr. Raju expressed that there is a growing lack of confidence in the local business community, leading to restraint in investments. He revealed that one NCCI member has even postponed plans for a significant $10 million investment due to safety worries.
Moreover, the issue of touting and harassment of tourists by certain rogue retailers in Nadi Town has been highlighted as another concern that the Chamber aims to address. Dr. Raju’s comments reflect a collective ambition among local leaders to not only enhance safety and security but also to foster a thriving business environment that is mutually beneficial for the community and the tourism sector.
In summary, the NCCI’s push for better security measures reflects a deep concern for both local and visitor safety. It underscores the critical link between economic development and maintaining a secure environment. With proactive discussions planned with police officials, there is hope that Nadi will strengthen its reputation as a safe tourist paradise and attract investment, ultimately leading to greater prosperity for the region.
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