Police probe vandalism at Sigatoka temple

Police are investigating the vandalism of sacred idols at the Kulukulu Ram Temple in Sigatoka after items were allegedly damaged and dumped outside the place of worship on Monday night.

The incident has raised concerns within the Sigatoka community and renewed calls for better protection of religious sites.

Ram Mandir trustee Amish Pal said he was distressed by what he saw when he went to the temple to pray.

“It is very sad to see that people are doing this,” Pal said.

“When I went to the mandir on Monday night for prayers, I saw that the sacred idols had been destroyed and thrown outside the temple.”

Pal said incidents of this nature were becoming increasingly common and urged authorities to take firm action.

“The government should do something about it because many cases like this are happening around Fiji, and this should stop,” he said.

He confirmed that a report had been lodged with police and that investigations were ongoing.

Member of Parliament Joseph Nand also condemned the vandalism, describing it as a disturbing act that had shocked the community.

“The whole of Sigatoka, which is usually a quiet and peaceful place, is in shock after temple deities and idols were vandalised,” Nand said.

He called on the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs to prioritise funding for the security of religious sites in the next national Budget.

“I urge the ministry to allocate funds to help places of worship secure their properties so incidents like this can be prevented,” he said, adding that he had raised the matter in Parliament.

Nand also appealed for calm and urged police to act swiftly.

“I request police to carry out the investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice as soon as possible. I also ask worshippers and temple members to remain calm and allow authorities to handle the matter,” he said.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that a report had been received and investigations were underway.