Roneel Sami, the president of Nadi’s nightclub operators and owner of Ice-Bar Nadi, has called for a reevaluation of current regulations to enhance the safety of nightclub patrons. His comments follow a troubling incident involving three Australian airline crew members who reportedly experienced theft and sexual assault at a nightclub in Martintar, Nadi.
Sami emphasized the need for nightclub operators to work closely with government and relevant stakeholders to address safety concerns and minimize the negative impact of such incidents on Fiji’s tourism reputation. “The incident has unfortunately painted a negative image for tourism in Fiji,” he stated, although he reminded the public that such incidents are not exclusive to nightclubs.
He pointed out that closing time for nightclubs at 1 am leads to large crowds waiting for taxis outside, which can leave patrons vulnerable. “If nightclubs operated until 5 am, it would allow for better management of patrons’ departure times and would reduce the number of people waiting outside, making it easier to find transportation,” Sami suggested.
Addressing parking concerns, Sami noted that many nightclubs, especially along Bar One and its vicinity, lack adequate parking facilities, forcing patrons to walk along poorly lit streets while searching for taxis that may not be readily available due to operational limits.
Sami also raised the issue of limited police presence in the area after hours, suggesting that this, combined with the lack of parking and the high number of nightclubs in Martintar, contributes to safety risks for patrons. He urged the Nadi Town Council to reconsider the registration of nightclubs failing to meet essential safety standards.
Responding to the incident, Saliceni Raiwalui, Chair of the Nadi Town Council’s Special Administrator, extended sympathy to the victims and acknowledged the urgency of the matter. “This incident has been a wake-up call for all of us to reassess our measures for the safety of tourists and locals alike,” Raiwalui stated.
This situation invites a hopeful perspective that the local authorities, in collaboration with nightclub operators, can implement necessary changes to enhance safety and restore confidence in Nadi’s nightlife. By taking proactive steps to create a safer environment, both locals and tourists can enjoy the vibrant nightlife that Fiji has to offer.
In summary, the call for improved safety measures in nightclubs stems from a recent incident that highlights vulnerabilities faced by patrons, and it presents an opportunity for meaningful change in the interest of public safety and tourism.
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