The towns of Labasa and Savusavu on Vanua Levu are facing a significant challenge with mentally ill individuals becoming a public nuisance. Many of these individuals are homeless or abandoned by their families, resulting in them wandering the streets, sleeping in doorways, and using public spaces as bathrooms.
This situation has heightened safety concerns, as some individuals have turned into traffic hazards by directing vehicles on busy streets or following tourists, instilling fear among visitors. Local business owners are increasingly worried about the implications for safety as the problem escalates.
Paul Jaduram, the chairperson of the Labasa Town Council and president of the Macuata Tourism Association, highlighted that the issue has been ongoing for several years. He recounted instances where he had to call the police for assistance when tenants complained about a mentally ill person sleeping near their shop. Jaduram noted that once police remove these individuals, they tend to return to the same locations, indicating a need for proper assessment and support from authorities.
He suggested that those diagnosed with mental illness and lacking family support should be sent to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital, while those who are homeless but mentally stable could be accommodated at the Golden Age Home. Jaduram emphasized that the growing problem is resulting in a loss of safety for both business operators and customers.
In response to this issue, police in Labasa have attempted to provide limited support by offering food, clothing, and temporary shelter. However, many of these individuals frequently return to the streets, often neglecting to take prescribed medications. The Divisional Police Commander North, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, urged families to take responsibility for their relatives, some of whom are social welfare recipients.
SSP Baledrokadroka pointed out that arrests can only be made when there are official complaints, emphasizing the need for community care. He noted that every individual deserves compassion and support, advocating for collective action to prevent people from being forced to beg on the streets.
The situation in Savusavu mirrors that of Labasa. Special administrator chairperson Shiu Shankar Singh expressed his frustration over incidents where mentally ill individuals disrupt traffic and harass tourists. He emphasized the urgent need for local authorities to collaborate and find effective solutions, especially with the festive season approaching.
Singh remarked on the difficulties business operators face in securing adequate police intervention, sharing that official complaints are necessary to prompt action against those causing disturbances.
Attempts to contact the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection for comments went unanswered. As the festive season draws near, both business owners and police are calling for immediate action to tackle the escalating crisis, stressing that without coordinated efforts, vulnerable individuals will continue to inhabit the streets.
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