Police will be out in force to ensure nightclub operators close their facilities at 1am.

This was the assurance from Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua on Friday.

As of Saturday, August 12, nightclubs will close at 1am.

This is after the Liquor Bill Amendment Act 2023 was passed in Parliament last month.

“The law has been passed in Parliament. It was passed with a purpose and good intentions,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“This doesn’t only go out to owners, but also to the community at large. We hope they recognise that the law is there for a good purpose.

“Police will of course be there to ensure the law is enforced. However, we hope they will not need to do that. I think everybody is responsible enough to understand and know the consequences of their actions.”

Police

More police officers will be deployed this weekend in anticipation of the change of nightclub operating hours and the likely spill-over of night-life social activities into residential areas.

Acting Commissioner of Police Livai Driu said the main focus was to ensure everyone enjoyed their weekend without any major incident.

He said information had been gathered on the trend of ‘transporters’ who are paid to purchase alcohol from black market operators, and deliver it to those willing to pay the extra dollar without the associated risks.

The Acting Commissioner has warned that police were well aware of this trend, and would monitor black markets and known drinking spots.

They will clamp down on those intending to break the law and be a nuisance to other members of the public.

He said Police had, throughout the week issued reminders to nightclub operators and security personnel of the need to adhere to the new hours.

Story By: Inoke Rabonu

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj