Roneel Sami, president of Nadi’s nightclub operators and owner of Ice-Bar Nadi, has called for a thorough reassessment of current rules and regulations governing nightclubs in Fiji to enhance patron safety. His remarks came after a troubling incident involving three Australian airline crew members at a nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, where they reportedly endured theft and sexual assault.
Sami emphasized the need for collaboration between nightclub operators, the government, and other stakeholders to review and improve safety protocols. He highlighted that such incidents could tarnish the tourism reputation of Fiji. “While this incident is unfortunate, it’s important to recognize that it isn’t isolated; similar occurrences take place outside nightclubs as well,” he stated. Sami pointed out that the early closing time of nightclubs, which is currently set at 1 am, results in large crowds waiting for taxis outside, a situation that can make patrons more vulnerable.
He explained that extending nightclub operating hours back to the previous 5 am closing time could alleviate some safety concerns by reducing the number of people on the streets at once and improving access to taxis. Sami noted that many patrons are forced to walk along poorly lit streets while searching for transportation, given the lack of adequate parking facilities around the 14 nightclubs in the Martintar area.
Additionally, he expressed concerns over inadequate police presence after hours, attributing the incident partly to a lack of safety measures in place. “This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of safety regulations, and it may be time for the Nadi Town Council to reevaluate nightclub registrations that do not adhere to these basic safety requirements,” he suggested.
In response to these concerns, Saliceni Raiwalui, Chair of the Nadi Town Council’s Special Administrator, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and assured the community of the council’s commitment to safety. He described the incident as a wake-up call to review measures that protect both tourists and locals.
This incident sheds light on the vital intersection of nightlife, public safety, and the tourism experience in Fiji, serving as an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and implement changes that could enhance safety and bolster the image of the nation’s vibrant nightlife. It is hoped that proactive measures will lead to a more secure and enjoyable environment for all patrons, demonstrating that with collaboration and commitment, improvements can be made.
Overall, this situation highlights the importance of ongoing dialogue and action to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals enjoying Nadi’s nightlife.
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