Roneel Sami, president of Nadi’s nightclub operators and owner of Ice-Bar Nadi, has called for a thorough reassessment of rules and regulations governing nightlife to ensure the safety of patrons. His comments come in the wake of a disturbing incident involving three Australian airline crew members allegedly falling victim to theft and sexual assault in a Martintar nightclub.
Mr. Sami emphasized the need for collaboration among nightclub operators, government officials, and other stakeholders to enhance safety measures. He expressed concern that such incidents could tarnish Fiji’s image as a tourist destination. “This incident, though unfortunate, is just one of many events that transpire outside of nightclubs. When nightclubs close at 1 a.m., patrons, including tourists, are left on the streets waiting for taxis,” he noted.
He argued that extending nightclub operating hours, reminiscent of previous late-night policies, would allow patrons to leave in a more controlled manner and alleviate congestion outside, ultimately improving safety.
Additionally, Sami pointed out that the lack of parking facilities around Martintar’s 14 nightclubs forces patrons to navigate poorly lit streets in search of taxis, which exacerbates vulnerability for guests. He also highlighted the need for increased police presence surrounding nightlife venues after hours.
In response, Saliceni Raiwalui, Chair of the Nadi Town Council’s Special Administrator, acknowledged the situation and extended sympathy to the victims. He assured that the council is dedicated to ensuring safety for both tourists and locals and views the incident as a crucial opportunity to reassess and improve safety measures.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety within nightlife environments. The collaborative efforts proposed by operators and local authorities could lead to enhanced regulations that not only reinforce the safety of nightlife in Nadi but also bolster the overall confidence of tourists visiting Fiji.
As the situation evolves, there is hope that these necessary changes will foster a safer environment and promote a positive image of Fiji as a desirable travel destination.
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