The Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) has issued a strong warning about the alarming rise in intentional sugarcane field fires, labeling these actions as both reckless and illegal.
Dr. Vinesh Kumar, the chief executive officer of SRIF, stressed the extensive harm these fires inflict not only on farmers but also on the wider sugarcane industry. He reiterated that setting fire to sugarcane fields deliberately constitutes a criminal act that carries serious penalties.
“These incidents are not merely reckless; they are acts of crime that result in significant consequences,” Dr. Kumar stated. He noted that the SRIF has suffered immense losses, particularly in critical research data that has been compromised due to these events.
This data, which is meticulously collected over extended periods, is vital for fostering evidence-based innovations within the sugarcane sector. Dr. Kumar cautioned that even one instance of arson could obliterate valuable research in moments, hindering progress and adversely affecting the future of the industry.
He urged the community to recognize the severity of the issue, emphasizing that arson not only disrupts the economic viability of farmers but also threatens vital scientific research essential for the sustainability and growth of the industry.
The SRIF has called upon the public to remain alert and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities. “By cooperating, we can safeguard our sugarcane fields, protect crucial research, and secure the ongoing success of our industry,” he added.