Taxi operators in Suva played a crucial role in apprehending a man who attempted to steal a vehicle while a driver awaited police assistance after an accident. The incident occurred when a 28-year-old woman, who was involved in a collision on Victoria Parade, left the keys in the ignition while waiting outside her vehicle. A man then jumped into the driver’s seat and drove off with her car, which contained her two daughters in the back seat.
The police quickly alerted local taxi services about the stolen vehicle. The information was disseminated through radio communication, leading to a successful interception. The suspect stopped at Rewa Street to let the two girls out, at which point a taxi driver intervened and enabled police officers to catch up to him.
During the attempt to resist arrest, the suspect assaulted four police officers but was ultimately apprehended and is now in custody as investigations continue.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, praised the swift action of the taxi operators, emphasizing that their cooperation is vital in tackling such incidents. “These taxi operators had assisted Police in apprehending the culprit, and this is an example of working together to combat such incidents,” he stated. In recognition of their support, a team from Totogo Police Station is set to visit the taxi operators to express appreciation for their efforts.
This incident highlights the importance of community collaboration in maintaining safety and security in Suva. The quick thinking of the taxi operators and the police response not only ensured the well-being of the children but also reinforced a sense of unity in addressing crime.
In a positive light, this event serves as a reminder of how collective vigilance within the community can lead to effective crime prevention and encourage ongoing cooperation between public services and local businesses.
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