A bus driver in Makoi, Nasinu, has expressed deep concern regarding the police response to a violent encounter he faced with a group of youths. Jeremaia Fuakilau recounted that the incident transpired during his morning shift when approximately 10 to 15 intoxicated and aggressive individuals boarded his bus without paying. They demanded that he change his route to stop at a liquor store, and when he refused, the situation escalated.
Fuakilau described an alarming scene where the group verbally assaulted him, physically interfered with his steering, and attacked him with a rod. In an effort to escape the violent confrontation, he drove the bus directly to the nearby Tuirara Police Station. Unfortunately, upon his arrival, Fuakilau encountered one officer who was asleep and another who appeared oblivious to the disturbance outside. Although an officer did eventually respond, the youths managed to flee before help arrived.
As a result of the attack, Fuakilau suffered injuries requiring medical attention. He was advised to seek treatment prior to filing a police report. After submitting his medical documentation at the Nasinu Police Station, he has yet to receive any feedback from law enforcement, which has left him feeling anxious about returning to work.
This incident draws attention to the ongoing challenges regarding the safety of public transport workers and the effectiveness of police responses in emergency situations. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that the acting director of Operations has initiated an investigation into the officer’s alleged unresponsiveness during the violent incident. Meanwhile, authorities are actively pursuing the suspects involved in the attack.
Such events emphasize the need for heightened safety measures for public transport operators and the necessity for timely police support during crises. Highlighting these incidents could prompt local authorities to enhance the safety protocols for transport workers and improve community engagement with police services in the future.