Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh has raised alarm over a series of deliberate arson attacks targeting sugarcane farms, using makeshift time bombs made from mosquito coils and camphor to ignite fires under the cover of darkness. While some fires have been attributed to careless farming practices, Singh highlighted that many are clearly intentional, possibly stemming from jealousy or disputes among farmers.
During a recent visit to farms in Labasa, Singh described how the fire-starting devices are strategically hidden in the middle of fields, causing devastation before farmers are even aware of the threat. “Burning another farmer’s crop is not only criminal but deeply damaging,” he cautioned, appealing for dialogue instead of destruction among landowners.
Recent statistics are alarming, with over 5,000 tonnes of sugarcane reportedly destroyed in what has been one of the most destructive fire seasons in recent years. This loss not only jeopardizes the income of local farmers but also poses a significant risk to the overall sugar industry, which has recently faced challenges from both arson and accidental burnings, affecting around 170 acres of land.
Similar incidents have prompted calls for tougher penalties and thorough investigations into these crimes. Minister Singh, alongside the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF), has emphasized the need for community cooperation and vigilance to protect the sugarcane sector. The SRIF’s CEO, Vinesh Kumar, has previously condemned these reckless acts, urging people to report suspicious activities and emphasizing that collective efforts will be essential in safeguarding both farmers’ livelihoods and important agricultural research.
Looking ahead, there is a glimmer of hope as the government prepares to offer a rehabilitation package of $650 per acre for those affected by the fires. This initiative aims to support farmers during these challenging times while reinforcing the message that accountability for such violent acts is imperative for the sustainability of Fiji’s sugar industry.
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