Increasing crime rates and rising fatalities have become a significant concern for police, particularly during the ongoing festive season. Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga has expressed alarm over the recent spike in criminal activities, arrests, and road fatalities.
In December alone, there have been several severe cases, two of which involve the tragic deaths of young women—one, an 18-year-old found in Lautoka and another discovered in canefields in Nadi. Additionally, police have reported two alleged murder cases, one occurring in Veisari, Lami, and the other in Naqali Naitasiri.
ACP Lutunauga highlighted various criminal activities that have continued to occur during this period, including theft, attempted theft, and stabbings. On December 14, a 23-year-old was apprehended for theft, and on December 20, two individuals were caught attempting to steal in Tacirua. Notably, during the Christmas period, two stabbing incidents took place—one in Rewa and another in Bua, leading to the arrest of two juveniles for vandalism at a temple.
The rise in road fatalities is particularly troubling, with a total of 81 deaths this year compared to 66 in the previous year, a number that does not account for three additional fatalities recorded last Friday. ACP Lutunauga emphasized the ongoing breathalyser testing and indicated that the lack of adherence to road rules is a worrying trend, especially in areas with less police visibility.
While drowning incidents have decreased this year, ACP Lutunauga noted that poor decision-making continues to result in preventable losses. The police are intensifying enforcement and encouraging the public to act responsibly to ensure their safety during this festive season.
These concerning statistics highlight the importance of community awareness and responsible behavior to combat the rise in crime and harm, fostering a safer environment for everyone as the year comes to a close.
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