Three students have been linked to a recent bus stoning incident in Namoli, located outside Labasa. According to the Fiji Police Force, the students will undergo questioning along with their parents and guardians. This troubling incident has heightened concerns among bus drivers regarding their safety while working on affected routes.
In response to the ongoing attacks, Rohinil Chand, the managing director of Dalip Chand and Son Private Ltd, confirmed that the company remains committed to providing services but acknowledges the escalating risk to drivers. “We are continuing operations, but the safety of our drivers is becoming a serious concern,” he stated.
The Fiji Police Force has deployed community policing officers to the Namoli area to engage with residents about the implications of such behavior. They are encouraging parents to discuss these issues with their children, warning that repeated violence could result in the loss of bus services in the area. The police have underscored the importance of community support in preventing youth from engaging in illegal activities, thus contributing to safer neighborhoods.
These incidents aren’t isolated but reflect a broader trend of violence against public transportation in the region. Recently, local police encouraged bus users to collaborate in identifying those responsible for similar crimes, highlighting the need for collective action to ensure safety. The ongoing dialogue between transport operators and law enforcement is a positive step toward improving safety measures and restoring community trust in public transport services.
As stakeholders come together to address these concerns, there is hope that community cooperation will generate a safer atmosphere not only for drivers but for all commuters who rely on these essential services.
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