Suva business owners are expected to experience a drop in crime as the Suva City Council prepares to install 40 state-of-the-art CCTV cameras throughout the central business district. Chairman Tevita Boseiwaqa announced that a tender for the project was advertised on January 4, 2025, signaling an important step toward enhancing security in the area.

Boseiwaqa highlighted that the new CCTV system will utilize advanced technology similar to that used in parts of Australia, which can identify known offenders who are already under the Fiji Police Force’s surveillance. The installation will span from Nabukalou Bridge to Walu Bay Bridge, effectively encompassing the core of the city’s commercial activities.

“This high-tech system can detect movement even in low-light conditions and register individuals of interest,” said Boseiwaqa. He also detailed plans for the police to operate a dedicated monitoring station, which could be based at either the market station or the Suva City Council office, enabling 24/7 surveillance of city corridors and enhancing police response to illegal activities.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts by the Fiji Police Force to incorporate modern policing methods through the deployment of advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and expanded CCTV networks, as outlined in the Police Reset document. This strategic approach aims not just to monitor crime but to proactively prevent it through real-time awareness and data-driven analyses.

With work on the new CCTV system expected to be completed by the end of January, community members are hopeful that these improvements will lead to safer streets and a more secure environment for both businesses and residents. This effort represents a move towards building a more vigilant and safer Suva, instilling a sense of confidence among traders and the public alike.

In summary, the introduction of an extensive CCTV network is a crucial step forward in augmenting safety measures in Suva, potentially leading to reduced crime rates and enhanced community well-being.