Police, council step up efforts to curb crime at Ba Market

The Ba Town Council is working closely with the Fiji Police Force to improve safety and reduce crime at the Ba Market.

The initiative follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Fiji Police Force, Ba Town Council and the Ba Market Vendors Association in October last year.

A joint committee visited the Ba Town Council on Monday to introduce the policy framework and begin its implementation.

Under the agreement, joint operations will be carried out within the market to reinforce safety and security.

“A joint operation should be undertaken in the market to reinforce safety within the market space,” the Ba Town Council said in a statement.

The council’s market enforcement team has been tasked with maintaining a visible presence in identified crime hotspot areas, while the Ba Market Vendors Association will report any suspicious activity to police and the council.

“This MOU is aimed at improving market safety and security,” the council said.

Ba Police Station officer-in-charge Assistant Superintendent of Police Mohammed Riyaz said collaboration between stakeholders was essential.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much,” ASP Riyaz said.

Meanwhile, Ba Town Council staff dedicated Sunday to a thorough clean-up and sanitisation of the market chambers.

“Their hard work ensures a safe and pleasant environment for both vendors and the public,” the council said.

“We are committed to providing a clean and welcoming space for everyone.”