ANALYSIS: Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho carries a huge responsibility on his shoulders.

The Police Commissioner feels the weight of expectation from the public to keep our communities safe.

While he was away attending a conference in South Korea, criminals moved into top gear targeting residential properties and vehicles.

It was just a coincidence but the spate of robberies caused anxiety and concerns from many including the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

So it was a big relief when Brigadier-General Qiliho touched down at Nadi Internnational Airport on his return from South Korea.

He immediately reassured the public that the criminals would be caught and Police and public would work together to keep our communities safe.

He took charge and rolled into action.

From Nadi International Airport, on Wednesday, he zoomed down to Lautoka Police Station to check on the progress of Kashmir, Lautoka’s carjacking case.

On Thursday night, soon after the attempted carjacking at Namadi Heights, Tamavua, he was at Samabula Police Station.

He met with the traumatised taxi driver. He also met with his officers and got a briefing on the progress of the case.

His hands-on approach to policing is a welcomed change and sets an example to his officers.

His common touch not only inspires his officers but also cheers up victims of crime. They also know he means business and is serious about maintaining law and order.

And, when he says they will catch those criminals, you better believe it.

And the people have responded to his call for assistance to help Police.

At Tikaram Place, Namadi Heights, a courageous woman, now joins his growing legion of crime-fighting converts.

She rolled out her video camera and starting capturing the unbelievable events unfolding before her – three men trying to rob a taxi driver.

She uploaded the footage on social media and it went viral. The media picked it up and yesterday it made the national headlines.

Perhaps, Jay Tuitubou, summed up the public mood in this rallying call on social media: “Ask yourself what you can do for your country!!!!! Help prevent crime! Let’s make Fiji much safer!”

That’s music to the ears of Brigadier-General Qiliho.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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