A couple from the Western Division became victims of a suspected robbery, which is believed to be the first of its kind reported this year. Prinal Priya Devi, 32, and her partner Nalini Ranjani Prasad, 33, were staying at the Lautoka Hotel while celebrating New Year’s Eve when items valued at over $2,000 went missing from their room.
The couple checked into their hotel around 11:15 PM on New Year’s Eve. After preparing for their evening out, they left their room at about 11:45 PM to enjoy celebrations at a nearby nightclub. Ms. Devi mentioned that prior to leaving, everything was in order, including cash, backpacks, a watch, chargers, power banks, and even their McDonald’s dinner.
Later that night, they received news of a robbery occurring at the hotel. Upon their return to the room, they discovered it had been ransacked, with cash and valuables missing. Although the bag containing their cash was left behind, all other possessions had been taken, including their uneaten meal.
After reporting the incident to hotel staff, they were informed that a suspect had been apprehended and taken to the Lautoka Police Station. However, upon arrival at the station, they learned there had been no suspect detained. Ms. Devi expressed her frustration about waiting at the hotel reception from 2:30 AM to 6:30 AM for a police response. The hotel manager reviewed the CCTV footage, but unfortunately, the suspect’s face could not be clearly identified. Police eventually arrived at 9:30 AM to conduct a forensic investigation, with the robbery believed to have taken place at around 1:03 AM.
The authorities confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are still ongoing.
Despite the distressing situation, it is hopeful that the ongoing investigation will lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect. This incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of hotel security measures and vigilance among travelers to protect their belongings.
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