Police have emphasized the importance of alcohol control following the tragic deaths of two intoxicated individuals who were struck by a bus on Wednesday afternoon in Waitolu, Naitasiri. The victims, aged 21 and 45, were reportedly involved in an altercation that spilled onto the main road, leading to the accident involving a bus driven by a 30-year-old man.
The younger victim was declared dead at Vunidawa Hospital, while the elder victim succumbed to his injuries the following morning after being transported to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana stated that the accident could have been avoided had the victims not been under the influence of alcohol.
SSP Divuana reiterated the serious threat that excessive alcohol consumption poses to road safety for everyone—drivers, passengers, riders, and pedestrians alike. He urged Fijians to act responsibly, emphasizing the importance of understanding and taking responsibility for one’s behavior. “Two families are mourning the loss of their loved ones so close to Christmas,” he remarked, highlighting the emotional toll of such incidents compounded by their timing.
Furthermore, police have highlighted the dangers of alcohol as it impairs judgment and slows reaction times, encouraging road safety stakeholders to persist in advocating for responsible drinking habits. The current national road death toll stands at 58, a decrease from 74 during the same period last year, indicating some progress in road safety, but underlining the need for continued vigilance.
In light of this tragedy, it is crucial for the community to come together, reinforce commitments to safe practices, and prioritize responsible behavior, particularly during the holiday season. There is hope that with increased awareness and communal effort, such unfortunate incidents can be significantly reduced in the future.
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