‘Crime is not the answer’: Family helps Police nab Wailoku robbery suspects

Joe Toromai, the elder brother of a suspect in the alleged Wailoku robbery over the weekend, has called on youths to steer clear of criminal activities, especially robbery.

He made the statement after reprimanding his younger brother for allegedly taking part in the crime on Sunday morning, where a van driver was robbed by four youths.

“Life is hard, but you have to work to earn money. You don’t have to rob people,” Mr Toromai said.

Reprimand

Mr Toromai assisted police in identifying the four suspects after learning his younger brother was involved.

He had just arrived in Wailoku from Ra to visit his pregnant wife when he heard about the incident.

He immediately confronted and disciplined his juvenile brother, saying his actions were based on family values and the need to correct wrongdoing.

“This brings a bad name to our family, and I want them to change and think about their future,” he said.

His intervention, along with help from neighbours, led to the swift arrest of the four suspects (three juveniles and a man in his 20s) by the Fiji Police Task Force yesterday morning.

Investigations continue at the Samabula Police Station.

One of the four suspects’ (left) taken in custody by Police taskforce team at Wailoku on December 29, 2025.

Photo: Ronald Kumar

Police commend family help

Acting Police Commissioner Aporosa Lutunauga praised the family and community for assisting in the arrests.

He urged families to keep young people from engaging in crime.

“If you’re thinking about committing a crime, think carefully,” Mr Lutunauga said.

“The law is the law, and there will be consequences. Criminal convictions can hold you back for the rest of your life, all because of one wrong decision.”

Chiefs’ advice

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has also called for stronger community involvement in guiding youths, particularly iTaukei, away from crime.

GCC chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula said, “It is time for community leaders to step up and guide our young people, keeping them engaged in activities that give them a sense of belonging and purpose.”

He urged the iTaukei community to support police and government efforts to address youth crime.

“The Police and community leaders are doing their best, but it’s up to all of us to ensure young men are supervised, mentored, and given opportunities to grow positively,” he said.