Residents of Kaunitoni Street in Waiyavi Stage 2, Lautoka, are expressing grave concerns over the slow response times from police, stating that this has exacerbated crime and made their community feel increasingly unsafe. Justice of Peace Amit Raj highlighted the longstanding issues in the area, including drug use, underage alcohol sales, and increasing violent incidents.
Raj noted that the situation has recently deteriorated, with reports of youths throwing firecrackers at residential properties, vehicles, and individuals. He recounted a specific incident where firecrackers were hurled at his temple and home during Navratri prayers. In this case, the police took three hours to respond, which further enabled the perpetrators to flee.
Residents have described their weekends as chaotic, marked by drinking, swearing, and harassment that extend late into the night. They shared alarming details of a recent attack where a man was robbed and brutally discarded in a drain, ending up with a broken arm.
Raj warned that this pattern of behavior is eroding the trust residents have in law enforcement and poses an imminent risk, especially with Diwali approaching. He appealed directly to the Commissioner of Police, urging increased patrols, more rigorous charges against offenders, and a commitment to restoring safety in the neighborhood. “We cannot walk freely, enjoy our homes, or even shop without the fear of being robbed or assaulted,” Raj lamented.
The issues faced by residents of Waiyavi Stage 2 echo similar sentiments expressed by other communities in Fiji, where crime rates have surged and calls for a more visible police presence have grown louder. For instance, residents in Korovuto and Tamavua have also voiced their frustrations over increasing robbery incidents and lackluster police responses. Local authorities, including Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, have acknowledged these concerns, stating that developing active Crime Prevention Committees can help bridge the gap between police and community needs.
The growing demands for enhanced safety measures reflect a broader trend in Fiji, with many communities rallying for cooperation and proactive responses from law enforcement. The hope is that with increased community involvement and pressure on authorities, neighborhoods can reclaim their safety and peace, not just in Waiyavi, but across the country.