Only three traffic officers are currently patrolling the roads of Savusavu, a town with a population exceeding 12,000. This situation poses a significant challenge in maintaining public safety, especially given that there are only 84 police officers available to cover the entire region, with an additional 16 stationed at remote outposts in Saqani and Korotasere, bringing the total force to 100 officers.
Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga voiced his concerns about the inadequate number of traffic officers during the Fiji Media Association’s Meet the Press and Public Forum. He acknowledged the urgent need for more personnel, stating, “I agree with you, there’s a need to increase traffic officers in Savusavu.” Lutunauga expressed gratitude for the government’s commitment to bolster police numbers, emphasizing that the increase is essential for effective law enforcement in the area.
Going forward, he mentioned that the government is expected to recruit at least 1,000 new officers nationwide in the upcoming financial year. This recruitment is part of a broader effort to address personnel shortages, an issue that resonates with ongoing discussions about the operational challenges faced by the Fiji Police Force. Insufficient staffing levels have previously indicated that one officer is responsible for the safety of over 200 residents, which raises concerns about adequate public protection.
This proactive approach towards recruitment and improving officer visibility suggests a hopeful outlook for the Fiji Police Force, aiming to enhance community safety and build greater public trust. With the support from the government and a focus on community engagement, the police force’s commitment to increasing its manpower could lead to a more secure environment for all citizens.
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