Authorities are facing increasing demands to tackle the ongoing problem of illegal taxi operators, commonly referred to as “pirate taxis,” following a crucial incident on New Year’s morning involving the alleged rape and sexual assault of a Virgin Australia airline crew member in Nadi.
Over the weekend, police charged a man in his 20s, identified as a farmer, with one count each of rape and sexual assault. The accused is scheduled to appear in the Nadi Magistrate’s Court today.
Reports indicate that the incident took place after the victim accepted a ride from an unregistered taxi operator after leaving a nightclub in Martintar, Nadi. In a separate occurrence, another airline crew member was attacked when misled by a group of young men who subsequently mugged and assaulted him.
Ashwin Lal, general secretary of the Fiji Taxi Association, voiced serious concerns regarding the persistent presence of pirate taxis, highlighting the significant risk they pose to public safety. He stated, “We have been urging the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to take action against illegal taxi operators, but little has been achieved. The safety of the public is at stake, and we must ensure that only registered drivers are allowed to operate.”
Lal warned that incidents like these could damage Fiji’s image as a tourist destination, especially in areas like Nadi Airport, where many visitors depend on taxi services. He advised both locals and tourists to refrain from using unregistered transportation, pointing out that these drivers lack the training and qualifications to offer safe services.
The LTA had already cautioned private vehicle owners against unauthorized Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operations, with CEO Irimaia Rokosawa stressing that such practices are illegal and passengers also share some of the responsibility. “By paying pirate taxi operators, passengers contribute to the problem. If there’s no demand, there won’t be any supply,” he explained.
In response to rising security issues, police have intensified patrols in Nadi’s nightclub areas, including Martintar. Lal emphasized the need for stricter enforcement against illegal operators, noting that registered taxi drivers are at a disadvantage while the public remains at risk. He concluded with a call for decisive action to protect lives and livelihoods.
In summary, this alarming issue has sparked a significant response from authorities, underscoring the importance of public safety and the need for effective regulation of the transport sector. With increased awareness and cooperation between authorities and the community, there is hope that decisive action can be taken to eliminate the threat posed by illegal taxi operations, ensuring safer environments for both locals and tourists.
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