Fish Heist at Dawn

A 71-year-old fish vendor in Suva is calling for urgent improvements in market security after thieves stole 48 bundles of fish from his freezer early Saturday morning. 

Jone Waqaituinayau, a longtime fish seller at the Suva market, filed a report at Totogo Police Station following the theft, which occurred around 6am. 

“We noticed the market started opening at 5am last week, and that small change made a big difference,” Waqaituinayau said. 

He believes the lack of security officers during those early hours left vendors vulnerable. 

“In the past, when security was present, everything ran smoothly. Now, there’s no one watching over the place,” he said. 

The stolen fish were stored in a 4-foot-deep freezer. Fortunately, a second 6-foot freezer filled with more stock was untouched. 

“We were lucky they didn’t touch the bigger freezer, or we would’ve lost everything,” he said. 

He is now urging the Suva City Council and relevant authorities to employ older and more vigilant security personnel. 

“We need responsible officers, ideally people between 50 and 60 years old. No teenagers. We need people who take their job seriously,” he said. 

According to Mr Waqaituinayau, calls were made to the Suva City Council, but no one showed up to inspect the scene or offer assistance. 

“It’s disappointing. We’re not asking for much, just proper security so we can work in peace,” he said.  

Mr. Waqaituinayau said the loss of fish has affected his earnings for the week, and he hopes police will track down those responsible. 

Questions have been sent to the Suva City Council regarding the alleged lack of security presence and failure to respond. 

Mr. Waqaituinayau, like many other vendors, is hoping for swift action before more hardworking sellers fall victim to theft.