The towns of Labasa and Savusavu on Vanua Levu are facing significant challenges with mentally ill individuals causing disturbances in public spaces. Many of these individuals are homeless or estranged from their families, often found sleeping in doorways and defecating in public areas.
Some have become a danger on the roads, as they guide vehicles in busy traffic or follow tourists, escalating fears among visitors. Business owners are increasingly voicing safety concerns as the situation deteriorates. Paul Jaduram, the chairperson of the Labasa Town Council and president of the Macuata Tourism Association, stated that this issue has been ongoing for years.
“I’ve had to contact the Labasa Police Station when my tenants have reported a mentally ill person sleeping outside their shop,” Jaduram noted. He added that when police remove these individuals, they tend to return to the same locations, emphasizing the need for proper assessments by authorities. He suggested that those diagnosed with mental conditions and lacking family support should be sent to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital, while mentally stable homeless individuals could find shelter at the Golden Age Home. Jaduram warned, “This issue is escalating, and many business operators and customers no longer feel safe.”
In response, police in Labasa have taken some measures, providing food, clothing, and temporary housing for affected individuals. However, many quickly revert to living on the streets, and non-compliance with prescribed medications remains a challenge. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kemueli Baledrokadroka emphasized the importance of family support in caring for these individuals, pointing out that some are social welfare beneficiaries with families that should be responsible for their well-being.
“Families need to take accountability for their relatives,” SSP Baledrokadroka said. “If any crimes are committed, we need formal complaints to take action. We must remember that they are human too, and we all have a role to play in ensuring no one is left to beg on the streets.”
Savusavu is encountering similar problems. Shiu Shankar Singh, the special administrator chairperson, expressed concern over mentally ill individuals causing disruptions and harassing tourists. “There have been instances where these individuals follow tourists in the market, making them feel unsafe,” he said, urging relevant authorities to collaborate on solutions as the festive season approaches.
Additionally, Singh mentioned the struggle for meaningful police help, citing incidents of threats and public indecency that did not lead to police action without official complaints.
The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection was contacted for comments but did not respond. With the holiday season nearing, there is a collective call from businesses and police for prompt action to tackle the escalating crisis, stressing that coordinated efforts are essential to ensure vulnerable individuals do not remain on the streets.
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