Deliberate cane farm arson is being carried out using makeshift time bombs, says Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh.
The minister said mosquito coils and camphors were being used to spark late-night fires that destroy crops before farmers even notice the damage.
“A mosquito coil is lit next to a camphor (fire starter)… it eventually ignites the camphor, setting the surrounding cane on fire,” he said during a visit to farms in Labasa yesterday.
The devices are reportedly placed in the centre of farms, hidden from view.
He said while some fires were caused by carelessness, others were clearly intentional and may be linked to jealousy or disputes between farmers.
“Burning another farmer’s crop is not only criminal but deeply damaging,” he said.
“If you have problems with someone, don’t burn their cane. Go and talk to them.”
Over 5000 tonnes of cane have been destroyed in recent weeks — one of the worst fire seasons in recent years.
“Please stop these acts. You’re not just burning cane; you’re burning someone’s income.”
Questions sent to the Fiji Police remained unanswered when this edition went to press.
