In Tavua, Fiji, the issue of cattle theft has reached alarming levels, with over 70 cases reported this year alone. Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga has highlighted the struggles of local livestock farmers who are increasingly targeted by thieves, making cattle theft a persistent crime in the district.
Despite Tavua having some of the lowest drug-related crime rates in the nation, livestock theft remains a significant concern. Lutunauga confirmed that out of the 71 cases documented, 20 have resulted in court action. He urged farmers to take proactive measures, including properly tagging and monitoring their cattle, to assist law enforcement in investigations. The lack of identifiable branding has hindered some investigations, complicating efforts to link stolen animals back to their rightful owners.
Thieves often take advantage of communal events, such as funerals, when farmers may be less vigilant. Furthermore, there are reports of individuals traveling from Suva to purchase stolen cattle, further exacerbating the issue.
Residents in the area are calling on the government to enhance safety measures and provide better support for the local police force, which currently consists of 83 officers and a mere seven operational vehicles. Despite these limitations, Lutunauga reassured the community that police remain dedicated to addressing the issue of theft and protecting citizens.
This growing trend of livestock theft echoes concerns seen in other regions, such as Labasa, where farmers have faced devastating financial losses. Similar to the situation in Tavua, Labasa farmers have reported significant losses totaling nearly $10,000 through multiple theft incidents. With farming as a primary livelihood source, the emotional and financial toll on families has been considerable, bringing the importance of community vigilance to the forefront.
As police enhance their efforts and community members support one another, there is a collective hope for improved safety and the restoration of secure environments for livestock farmers. Ultimately, fostering solidarity within the community may lead to effective prevention measures against such inhumane acts, enabling farmers to protect their livelihoods and contribute to a thriving agricultural sector.