CCTV and patrols proposed as Nadi crime rises

There is growing concern among businesses and tourism stakeholders over rising crime in Nadi, with calls for a coordinated response between Police, the Nadi Town Council and the private sector through CCTV monitoring and rapid communication networks.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe made the comments during a talanoa session organised by the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Nadi Town Council chambers last Friday.

The session was held under the theme Creating a Safe and Secure Nadi for All.

ACP Vusonilawe said Police needed support from the council and the business community, particularly in monitoring CCTV systems in Nadi and Namaka.

“We need support from the council, and maybe you can discuss that with the business houses,” he said.

“One of the things we have adopted now is the use of CCTV cameras to better monitor activities in the area, and that is the best way forward.

“I give my assurance that we will work together to ensure a safe environment for the people of Nadi and the tourists coming in.”

He said Police would also enhance visibility in high-risk areas and improve response times to incidents.

NCCI president Lawrence Kumar said stakeholders were gathered not to assign blame, but to work towards a safer and more prosperous Nadi.

“The recent rise in crime is not just statistics to us; it is our livelihood, our safety, and the confidence of our investors eroding in real time,” he said.

“We have witnessed an alarming surge in criminal activity. It is not just petty theft anymore.

“We are seeing burglaries targeting business premises, violent altercations and street fights in the heart of our township, and an unsafe environment for visitors and tourists, which threatens our tourism sector.”

Mr Kumar said the situation was affecting business confidence and operations in the town.