Following a troubling increase in serious and fatal road accidents, law enforcement authorities in the Western Division have stepped up their efforts to ensure public safety during the busy Christmas and New Year festivities. This initiative sees nearly 100 additional officers deployed from Suva to high-risk areas, enhancing visibility and providing a reassuring presence for the community.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Kasiano Vusonilawe outlined that this plan stems from a comprehensive year-long analysis of crime and accident data, which identified specific locations, such as Wailolaloa beach, needing closer surveillance. “The strategy was to be there before they come to the area,” Vusonilawe explained, noting that police were positioned strategically to manage crowds exiting clubs and discourage continued drinking in public spaces.
In addition to an increased police presence, teams have been actively addressing illegal alcohol sales. Authorities shut down unlicensed vendors and ensured that licensed establishments adhered to mandated operating hours, closing by midnight. Vusonilawe emphasized this proactive stance, remarking, “We were aggressive in terms of black markets…minor offenses give birth to serious cases.”
The public has generally reacted positively to these heightened measures, with many experiencing a safer nightlife in Nadi as a result. While the overall crime rate decreased during the festive season, the persistence of fatal road accidents remains a significant issue, reinforcing the necessity for continued vigilance.
Vusonilawe concluded by underlining the importance of building trust in policing efforts, indicating that consistent and visible policing is vital for garnering community support and improving strategies for future crime prevention. This commitment to fostering a safer environment signals a hopeful move towards enhanced public safety for all.