The new Nakasi Police Station, valued at $36 million, was inaugurated this morning by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad. Although the station has been operational since its completion in 2023, today’s ceremony marks its official opening, reaffirming the government’s focus on enhancing public safety.
The Nakasi Police Station plays a critical role in serving over 45,000 residents along the Nakasi corridor. It acts as a central hub for the Eastern Division Headquarters, supervising five police stations and 13 community posts across the provinces of Tailevu, Naitasiri, Rewa, and Lomaiviti. Prasad emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to bolster the Fiji Police Force through sustained investment aimed at improving both efficiency and effectiveness within the organization.
Notably, this inauguration comes at a time when the Fiji Police Force is slated for significant enhancements in its operational capabilities, as highlighted during the recent budget discussions. A noteworthy budget increase of $13.5 million will elevate the total allocation for the police force to $240.3 million. This boost will allow for the recruitment of 1,000 new officers, increasing personnel strength to over 6,550 and substantially improving police visibility across the nation.
Minister Prasad pointed out that the investment in police manpower has already led to a 20% increase in personnel, showcasing the government’s confidence in the leadership of the Force. While addressing the assembly, he reiterated that, although national development is a priority, public safety remains paramount. He urged the community to collaborate with the police and the government to uphold the law and secure peace within their neighborhoods.
These developments illustrate a proactive approach by the government to reinforce the Fiji Police Force’s capacity to tackle rising crime rates and enhance service delivery. The long-term vision, which includes strategies for improved efficiency, aligns with a broader initiative to foster trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, paving a hopeful path towards a safer Fiji.