Only three traffic officers are patrolling the roads of Savusavu, a town of over 12,000 people with just 84 police officers available to cover the entire area.
Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga revealed the stark figures at the Fiji Media Association’s Meet the Press and Public forum, acknowledging the urgent need for more boots on the ground.
“I agree with you, there’s a need to increase traffic officers in Savusavu,” he said.
While 84 officers are based in town, another 16 serve remote outposts in Saqani and Korotasere, bringing the total to 100.
Mr Lutunauga welcomed Government’s commitment to boost police numbers, saying, “The increase of officers in Savusavu is a must.”
He presented the figures after concerns were raised about the number of traffic officers in Savusavu area, of which he said there were three.
“I agree with you, there’s a need to increase traffic officers in Savusavu,” Mr Lutunauga said.
He told the Meet the Press and Public Forum organised by the Fiji Media Association that he was thankful to the Government for committing to increasing police numbers in the coming financial year.
“This will allow us to increase our traffic officers and manpower in Savusavu.
“The increase of officers in Savusavu is a must.”
Mr Lutunauga said at least 1000 new recruits were expected to join the force nationwide in the new financial year.
