Markets join forces to fight crime
MOU signed to boost surveillance, training, and crime prevention in Fiji’s municipal markets, backed by UN Women and the Australian government.
Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 21:00
Australian High Commisioner Peter Roberts, Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa, UN Women Representative Alison Davidian and Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu with market vendors, municipal council representatives, and police officers after the signing of an MOU at the Suva Civic Centre on October 28, 2025.
Photo: Kaneta Naimatau
Fiji’s 6,800 market vendors across 11 municipal markets will benefit from enhanced safety measures following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) yesterday.
The MOU between the Fiji Police Force, Municipal Councils and Market Vendors Associations aims to tackle criminal activities and drug-related issues in market spaces.
Eleven councils signed the agreement – Levuka, Nausori, Sigatoka, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Tavua, Rakiraki, Labasa, Savusavu and Suva.
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Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, said the agreement was a powerful message against criminal activities.
“Let it be known that our market vendors stand with our Municipal Councils to support the Fiji Police in carrying their role in fighting against drugs,” Mr Nalumisa said.
“We will stand together in the fight against criminal activities and putting a stop to the entrance of drugs to our markets.”
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said the partnership was crucial as police could not fight crime alone.
“Unfortunately, women and girls are more vulnerable in public spaces,” Mr Tudravu said.
“Through enhancement of awareness with stakeholders such as this, we are hoping to change the mindset to know that it is everyone’s responsibility.”
The MOU establishes information sharing between parties to prevent and respond to violence, training for vendors and police on safety protocols, and better reporting systems.
Market Vendors Association president Filomena Tukana said the agreement marked a significant milestone.
“This MOU reflects our shared commitment to enhance safety and security in our marketplaces and collaborate on initiatives to prevent crime and address illicit activities,” Ms Tukana said.
The initiative is supported by the Australian Government through UN Women’s Market for Change Programme, which has upgraded market infrastructure across Fiji.
Mr Tudravu revealed that CCTV cameras at various markets are now connected to police command centres for 24-7 monitoring.
Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj
