Residents of Sakoca Settlement in Tamavua are voicing their concerns about rising crime in their area, particularly following a series of break-ins that have hit local businesses and construction sites hard. In a recent incident, Nitin Prasad, the owner of Rainbow Clean Services, reported that his company vehicle was vandalized and robbed overnight, with vital equipment stolen including a subwoofer and amplifier.
Mr. Prasad highlighted the personal impact of the break-in, stating, “When I opened it, I saw the subwoofer and amplifier were missing,” which has disrupted his operations where the vehicle is crucial for daily staff transport. He is not alone in his appeal for a more visible police presence, as other community members have also expressed their frustration over the lack of deterrence against thefts.
This uptick in crime has been noticeable, with police confirming that Mr. Prasad’s vehicle break-in followed another theft just a week prior, where power tools were taken from a nearby construction site. Sahil Kumar, a carpenter, described how the thieves managed to break into his site, saying, “They removed a window pane and used a wheelbarrow to steal equipment,” and noted that this was the third break-in at the same location in just four months.
A witness reportedly saw three youths near the construction site during the theft, raising further concerns among residents. In response to their complaints, police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that two arrests have been made concerning Mr. Prasad’s case, with one suspect facing charges and set to appear in court.
The police have mentioned that they have been increasing visibility in the Sakoca area recently, which shows an effort to combat rising crime levels—echoing a broader trend seen across various communities. Similar incidents have prompted local business owners, like Harminder Singh of Maya Dhaba in Suva, to call for increased police patrols, emphasizing community vigilance as a key component in fighting crime.
As these incidents highlight growing safety concerns, it offers a poignant reminder of the importance of collective action within communities. With ongoing efforts from law enforcement and a call for greater community vigilance, residents can work towards fostering a safer environment for all—a hopeful perspective amidst the current challenges.
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