Authorities are facing increasing pressure to tackle the ongoing problem of illegal taxi operators, often referred to as “pirate taxis,” in the aftermath of a serious incident involving a Virgin Australia airline crew member in Nadi. The incident, which occurred on New Year’s morning, involved allegations of rape and sexual assault after the victim accepted a ride from an unregistered taxi driver.
Over the weekend, police charged a man in his 20s, believed to be a farmer, with one count each of rape and sexual assault. He is scheduled to appear in the Nadi Magistrate’s Court today. The alleged assault took place after the victim had left a nightclub in Martintar, Nadi.
Additionally, a second airline crew member was also attacked after being misdirected by a group of young men, who then mugged and assaulted him as well.
Ashwin Lal, the general secretary of the Fiji Taxi Association, expressed his deep concern over the threats posed by the ongoing operation of pirate taxis. He highlighted the urgent need for the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to take stronger action against these illegal operators, emphasizing that public safety is at risk. Mr. Lal stated, “The safety of the public is at stake, and we must ensure that only registered drivers are allowed to operate,” noting that such incidents could damage Fiji’s reputation as a safe tourist destination.
Lal urged both locals and tourists to avoid unregistered transport services, emphasizing that these drivers are neither trained nor qualified to provide safe transportation. The LTA had previously issued warnings to private vehicle owners against conducting unauthorized Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operations. The LTA’s CEO, Irimaia Rokosawa, reiterated that these activities are illegal and reminded passengers that they share some responsibility: “By paying pirate taxi operators, passengers contribute to the problem. If there’s no demand, there won’t be any supply.”
In response to the rising security concerns, police have increased their patrols in the nightclub areas of Nadi, particularly in Martintar. Meanwhile, Mr. Lal calls for stricter enforcement against illegal taxi operations, stressing the impact on both registered taxi drivers and public safety.
This situation underscores the importance of adhering to regulations that protect both citizens and visitors. By tackling the issue of illegal transport services head-on, authorities can not only improve public safety but also help maintain Fiji’s reputation as a desirable tourist destination. There is hope that decisive action can lead to safer environments for all, fostering a stronger community and promoting responsible tourism.
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