Police in the Northern Division have launched a specialized task force, comprising 25 officers, to combat the rise in yaqona theft in Taveuni. Acting Divisional Police Commander North, Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo, emphasized the seriousness of the issue, noting that these thefts are significantly impacting hardworking farmers.
Superintendent Soqosoqo highlighted that many farmers have resorted to installing closed-circuit televisions (CCTV) to protect their crops and deter thieves. The task force will prioritize visibility and surveillance in areas currently underserved by police presence, as local officers manage ongoing reports of thefts.
This initiative is set for a duration of 30 days, concluding on February 23. To enhance their operational capabilities, the Taveuni police have also acquired a new vehicle, which will help address crime more effectively. Recently, police successfully recovered four bags of stolen green yaqona plants, signaling an active response to the issue.
In a proactive move, the police are seeking to establish partnerships with registered grog buyers to trace the origins of yaqona plants, cautioning that any middlemen or buyers involved with stolen products will face legal action. Superintendent Soqosoqo advised that genuine purchases are essential to supporting farmers.
The issue has garnered attention at higher government levels, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledging the negative impact of yaqona theft on farmers’ livelihoods. Similarly, Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua visited Taveuni to assess the challenges police encounter in their efforts to combat these crimes. Superintendent Soqosoqo expressed hope that the Minister’s engagement in Parliament will lead to meaningful actions to address the problem.
Overall, the collaboration between the police and community members aims not only to restore confidence in law enforcement but also to protect the local agriculture industry, fostering a sense of security for farmers in Taveuni.
Leave a comment