THE new $29.8 million Lautoka Police Station will be developed into a state-of-the-art metropolitan station geared towards overseeing the protection and security of Lautoka City, says Minister for Defence Inia Seruiratu.
While speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday, he said the new modern station was envisioned to adapt and effectively meet the demands of the growing Lautoka community and also aligned with Commissioner of Police Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho’s five-year restructure plan.
“Lautoka’s concentrated movement of people will offer individuals and groups the opportunity to explore the opportunity to commit crimes,” he said.
“Government has invested millions of dollars into this project and like any investment, there is an expectation for a return on these investments, particularly from the funders — the taxpayer, the people of Fiji.”
He said investment into improving infrastructure in the Fiji Police Force had also boosted confidence in Fijians and international members of the community.
“Bolstering the Fiji Police Force’s efforts in the maintenance of law and order has resulted in increased investor confidence from the local and international business communities where Fiji and Lautoka’s reputation as ideal locations to visit and invest continues to grow.
“Cognizant to Government’s efforts in expanding Fiji’s global footprint is Fiji’s security climate, hence our focus on strengthening law enforcement.
“I believe as news of investments into our law enforcement capabilities, such as today’s groundbreaking $29.8 million new modern Lautoka Police Station is known throughout the world, it will draw the attention of international law enforcement agencies that will show their support towards our efforts in fighting transnational crime.”
