Ketan Lal, an opposition Member of Parliament, has urged the Fijian government to adequately resource and equip the Fiji Police Force as the new year approaches. His statement follows a series of violent incidents, including a particularly notable brawl that gained attention on social media last weekend, sparking heightened concerns regarding public safety.

Mr. Lal emphasized that the recent outbreaks of violence reveal a significant deficiency in the police’s ability to manage crowd control effectively. He pointed out that this issue extends beyond mere enforcement failures; it reflects a broader systemic problem stemming from the government’s insufficient support for the police force. He noted, “This is not just a failure of enforcement, but a systemic issue tied to the government’s inability to provide adequate resources, proper training, and sufficient manpower to the force.”

As the festive season approaches, characterized by increased gatherings and celebrations, Mr. Lal highlighted the urgent need for law enforcement to be properly equipped to deter violence. He criticized the lack of a visible police presence in areas prone to unrest, as well as the absence of modern surveillance technology and preventive measures that could help mitigate such incidents.

He asserted, “It is not enough to react after the fact — we need a proactive strategy, better funding, and robust planning to protect the public.” He underscored that the citizens of Fiji deserve to feel secure in their communities, stressing that it is the government’s duty to ensure their safety.

In summary, there is a pressing call for increased investment in police resources and strategies to enhance public safety in Fiji, especially with the festive season on the horizon. This is a reminder of the collective responsibility to create safer environments through proactive measures.

As Fiji prepares to celebrate the new year, there is hope that government action will lead to improvements in public safety measures, fostering a sense of security for all citizens.