Residents of Wainibuku in Nakasi are urgently calling on authorities to address the rising crime rates in their community. The residents have expressed concerns over the increasing visibility of drug and alcohol use in public areas, as well as the aggressive behavior of local youths, some as young as 15 years old.
Raj Kumar, president of Wainibuku Satsang Ramayan Mandali, stated that many unemployed young people and school dropouts contribute to this issue. He noted that these youths often congregate at bus stops to consume marijuana and alcohol, creating disturbances late into the night, sometimes until four in the morning. Reports of robbery and vandalism by these groups have left residents feeling unsafe on the streets after dark.
Kumar emphasized that while complaints have been made to the police, effective responses have been lacking. He remarked, “When the police come to patrol, they hide and return once the police leave.” Despite some arrests, the youths seem undeterred and continue their activities.
Another resident, 73-year-old Prakash Wati, has observed a significant decline in safety over her 30 years in the area, indicating that there have been daytime burglaries while families are out. Many community members are afraid to voice their concerns due to fear of retaliation from the youths engaging in these illegal activities.
In response to the escalating situation, Lay preacher Nasoni Rokobiau mentioned that the Veitalevi Methodist Church is collaborating with community elders and local police to tackle the problem by encouraging parental involvement to steer children away from illegal behaviors. The area has previously been designated a “red zone” for drug-related activities, echoing similar concerns raised in the wider Nakasi region regarding the complex social issues tied to crime, such as unemployment, drug use, and youth engagement.
The involvement of local churches and community leaders in addressing these pressing issues signals a collective approach to fostering a safer environment for families. Community engagement and collaboration between various stakeholders are crucial for restoring peace and safety. As reported in similar articles, the need for increased community outreach and youth-focused programs is evident and could significantly impact the social fabric of Wainibuku in a positive way if effectively implemented.
The situation underscores the importance of community unity and proactive measures as pathways to combat drug abuse and violence, paving the way for a hopeful outlook towards creating a safer, more peaceful community.
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