Crime rate drops in Labasa, says Jaduram

Labasa Town has recorded a drop in criminal activity, with fewer incidents of shop break-ins and other offences.

Labasa Town Council special administrator chairperson, Paul Jaduram, said the township had previously faced issues of insecurity, particularly at night, due to the illegal public consumption of alcohol, which often led to shop break-ins and other offences. However, based on his observations, Mr Jaduram believes crime in the town has decreased compared to previous years.

He said crime mitigation remained a priority for the safety of the township, and stressed that collaboration with police was vital to this effort. "I used to observe drunkards hanging on shop shutters and roaming freely along the main street, while residents were in a fearful state. However, this has stopped," he said.

Mr Jaduram commended the police for their continued and timely foot patrols, which have ensured a strong presence and deterred criminal activity. 

Vandalism

He also emphasised that town vandalism, particularly damage to civic properties, was now a key focus for the council. When approached about the recent rubbish bin vandalism incident in Savusavu Town, Mr Jaduram said that ample closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras had been installed in town for monitoring and surveillance.

He said these security cameras would serve as evidence in any cases of vandalism in Labasa. While reports of vandalism are currently scarce in the town, the council would not be complacent in its efforts to ensure civic property remains protected. Mr Jaduram urged the public to report suspicious individuals and stressed that community vigilance was key to maintaining town beautification.

The Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival began at Subrail Park in Labasa last Friday. The town is expected to see an influx of visitors attending the festivities. "While we encourage visitors to come and enjoy the carnival, we also caution them to act responsibly and help ensure the safety of our township," he said.

Mr Jaduram said noise pollution had become a major issue for residents and visitors living along Labasa's main street. This was due to high-speed and modified vehicles that were frequently used to show off, disturbing the peace.

Feedback: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj