A recent viral image that ignited social media outrage over a supposed confrontation between police officers and local vendor Nunia Kalougata has been clarified by the woman at the center of the incident. The picture, which showed a tense moment captured by a bystander, initially led to widespread claims that police were harassing Kalougata, who is 29 years old, for simply trying to earn a living on Ratu Dovi Road, Nasinu.
However, Ms. Kalougata has since come forward to set the record straight, stating that the narrative circulating on social media does not reflect the true nature of the exchange. She emphasized that the police were conducting their necessary duties without any malice.
As a mother of three young boys—aged six, two, and a two-month-old infant—Kalougata has been running her food vending business near Challengers Plaza at Laucala Beach for around six years. She reassured the public that she operates within the regulations set forth by the Nasinu Town Council, having secured a Health License and obtained permission from the property owner where she sells her goods.
“The police officers were just doing their jobs, and in no way did their approach feel threatening or harassing,” Kalougata stated, defending their professionalism amidst the misunderstanding.
This incident raises the importance of accurately representing events on social media and highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of interactions between local vendors and law enforcement. It serves as a reminder that assumptions can lead to unnecessary outrage, overshadowing the realities of compliance and community engagement. Despite the initial controversy, Kalougata’s open dialogue could foster a more positive relationship between local businesses and authorities moving forward.
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