Police increase efforts to safeguard places of worship

The Fiji Police Force is working closely with religious leaders and other members of the community to protect places of worship in light of a recent attack against a Hindu temple.

Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua has reaffirmed that Police were taking proactive measures to "prevent any recurrence of such sacrilegious acts", including developing joint security plans and encouraging places of worship, like the Samabula Shiv Mandir Temple in Suva to review their security plans and provide an example for other faith-based organisations to follow.

The temple was the target of an alleged act of religious sacrilege last month.

Speaking in parliament on Wednesday, Mr Naivalurua condemned the attack and vowed to protect sacred spaces across all faiths.

"Our strength as a nation lies in our ability to embrace our differences, our distinct identities, histories and religious faiths, while celebrating one another's festival and values with warmth and goodwill," he said.

"It is through this shared diversity that we build a nation where everyone belongs and contributes."

He added that Police have increased police patrols, particularly around key places of worship, and would continue doing so during upcoming significant religious events.

Police are said to be engaging in awareness campaigns with youth groups, schools and communities, promoting religious tolerance and monitoring online activity for signs of extremism.

Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate flagged the issue of "ethnic and religious vilification" on social media platforms, and suggested if Police may work with the Online Safety Commission to address it.

In response, Mr Naivalurua acknowledged the concern and said that Police had a responsibility to enforce the law.

Feedback: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj