Police yesterday executed their zero tolerance policy on drunken louts.

They broke up a street fight in Martintar, Nadi and took a man to the Police station as they cracked down on drunkards.

They warned there would be no let-up in their vigilance to keep the streets safe.

Their rapid response has earned them praise from the local residents.

Diana Kafoa, 30, said they were impressed by the Police response.

She said they were accustomed to seeing brawls.

“It has been an eyesore when fights spill over onto the roadside,” she said. “It is also a scary scene but the Police are always on time to prevent the fight from going big. We request the Police to maintain such a visibility at all times.”

Another resident Ronnie Chang, 64, said:“The Martintar corridor has been filled with too many drunkards in the early hours. When I go to buy newspaper I see them sleeping on the footpaths or in bus stops.”

Police vehicles were out in numbers yesterday to ensure public safety in Nadi and around the country.

Police chief operations officer ACP Rusiate Tudravu said they loved the response from the public.

He said this was part of their operation ‘Gauna ni Marau’.

“We have to make sure that the public are free to enjoy themselves.

“Our mission is to have more mobility and visibility and we are targeting drinking and picnic spots too.”

He said the extra new vehicles given to the Police had helped.

“I’m personally looking after the operation. It has been a lot easier with the new vehicles provided.

“In Suva we have about 10 vehicles patrolling and likewise in the Western Division, especially in the urban centres.”

Inspectors and Constables were doing foot patrols around Nadi Town. Edited by Maraia Vula

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