New Duavata Carnival queen vows to champion crime prevention

"I promise to wear this crown with humility and dignity."

Those were the first words of Mere Mafi after being crowned Queen of the Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival at Subrail Park in Labasa last Saturday.

Ms Mafi said she was honoured to use the platform to advocate against crime and other social issues affecting communities.

She thanked her fellow contestants for making the competition memorable.

"I also want to thank my fellow contestants. It has been a great pleasure to stand with you," she said.

Ms Mafi described the journey to the crown as both challenging and rewarding.

"It has been quite a journey. Thank you all for your participation and thank you for believing in me."

She also thanked her parents, friends and cousin Josh for their encouragement and unwavering support throughout the competition.

"I also want to give a special thanks to my cousin, Josh. Thank you so much for being there for me, for your support and your effort," she said.

Ms Mafi encouraged other young women to take part in next year's carnival, saying the experience had been both rewarding and empowering.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old student Isimeli Katonitabua of All Saints Secondary School in Labasa was awarded the men's title. He is originally from Bua and lives in Valebasoga.

Minister calls for united fight against crime

Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua used the closing ceremony to call on communities across the Northern Division to play a greater role in reducing crime and drug-related offences.

Speaking at the carnival on Saturday, Mr Naivalurua said meaningful youth engagement remained one of the most effective ways to reduce offending.

He said community leaders and elders shared responsibility for ensuring people felt safe in their neighbourhoods.

"Is the North safe from crime? Are you safe, Babasiga?" he asked.

Mr Naivalurua said Police would continue strengthening measures to combat crime but stressed they could not succeed without community support.

"To the people of the North, how do we reduce crime?" he said.

"Police are doing their part, but as the Minister responsible, I need community assistance."

He said the fight against drugs and crime would require sustained effort and stronger partnerships between Police and communities.

Community steps up

Eniketi Settlement spokesperson and Fiji Labour Party member Alan Tuinasoni said the Vunivau area had been identified by Police as a hotspot for drug-related activities.

Mr Tuinasoni said residents had formed community groups to help protect young people from drug abuse and to monitor suspicious activity in the area.

He said the community also planned to work with Labasa Police to establish a community police post to strengthen crime prevention and public awareness.

"We have formed our special groups to ensure we monitor outsiders and ensure our children are not influenced into consuming drugs," he said.