Business owners in Suva are set to receive a significant boost in security as the city council announces the installation of 40 advanced CCTV cameras within the central business district. Tevita Boseiwaqa, chairman of the Suva City Council (SCC), confirmed that a tender for this project was advertised on January 4, 2025.

The CCTV system will utilize state-of-the-art technology similar to what is employed in various regions of Australia, designed specifically to detect known offenders who are on the radar of the Fiji Police Force. The coverage will extend from Nabukalou Bridge to Walu Bay Bridge, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of areas critical to the city’s commercial activities.

Boseiwaqa highlighted the cameras’ advanced capabilities, which include motion detection even under low-light conditions, as well as the identification of individuals flagged as persons of interest. The collaboration between the council and the police will allow for continuous surveillance with a dedicated monitoring station, potentially located at the market station or the SCC office, ensuring that illegal activities can be addressed swiftly.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts by the Fiji Police Force to adopt modern policing techniques and enhance community safety, reflecting the goals outlined in the Police Reset document. This document emphasizes the necessity of expanding surveillance technologies, including drones, to help combat crime effectively. By implementing real-time monitoring and data-driven analytics, law enforcement hopes to not only respond to crime but proactively prevent it.

Boseiwaqa expressed optimism that this security upgrade will lead to a safer environment and a consequent reduction in crime rates in Suva, fostering a more secure atmosphere for both businesses and residents. He expects the installation work to be finalized by the end of January.

In summary, the impending rollout of the CCTV system represents a proactive step toward enhancing public safety in Suva, instilling confidence among local traders and the wider community. By embracing such innovations, there is hope for a more secure urban space that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its citizens.