Police will step up its operations in Labasa, Seaqaqa, Savusavu and Taveuni in the Northern Division.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said the operations were part of Operation Yalo­dei, which focused on pro­viding everyone a safe and secure environment this fes­tive season.

“Officers on normal duties will assist with frontline po­licing during the operational period, which is from Decem­ber 15 to January 15,” she said.

Police continue to warn motorists and pedestrians to follow road rules because two lives were lost on Caka­udrove roads over the Christ­mas public holiday in two separate accidents.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said a three-year-old was hit by a vehicle along Lovonivou Road on Monday afternoon and a 21-year-old man was involved in a hit and run ac­cident on Tuesday morning at Vuniyasawa settlement outside Savusavu town.

“In most cases, the pedes­trian was at fault. Our efforts were on the two main high­ways, but fatalities recorded were in the outskirt of town, at Wainibokasi in Nakelo and from Savusavu and Tave­uni,” he said.

“The total death toll now stands at 70 compared to 66 during the same period last year. Despite the advisories issued on road safety we con­tinue to record accidents on daily basis.

“We also continue to warn drivers to avoid speeding and drink driving because it con­tinues to be the two leading causes of accidents. Drivers need to be aware that fatigue as well can be a threat to safety.”

Edited by Percy Kean

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