A joint working committee has been established to assess the possible relocation of the Suva Corrections Centre (Suva CC) to Naboro, as authorities seek long-term solutions to persistent flooding, sewer issues and overcrowding at the facility.
The committee was formed by the Ministry of National Planning, Development and Statistics in collaboration with the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS), following a ground visit and meeting yesterday morning by Acting Commissioner of Corrections Auta Moceisuva and Permanent Secretary for National Planning Peni Sikivou, together with senior officials.
The Suva CC has been plagued by recurring flooding and sewer spillages whenever heavy rain and flash floods occur, particularly affecting low-lying dormitory areas.
“We have had to constantly move inmates out of the dormitory located in the low-lying area because of heavy rains,” Acting Commissioner Moceisuva said.
“This has to be repeated regularly and causes inconvenience to inmates, who are then moved into other facilities that are already overcrowded.”
Moceisuva said overcrowding remains a serious concern, with 330 inmates currently in custody despite the centre having an approved capacity of 280.
He added that while the drainage and sewer systems require major realignment, surrounding developments have limited space for expansion.
“The entire drainage and sewer system needs serious realignment, but this will only exacerbate the problem given the growth of developments around the area, which has constrained space for expansion,” Moceisuva said.
The joint working committee has been tasked with preparing a comprehensive report on the feasibility of relocating Suva CC to Naboro.
The report will consider the development of road infrastructure, modern institutional buildings focused on rehabilitation, court facilities, staff quarters, emergency support services and other amenities required for a fully functional corrections facility.
Upon completion of the report, a joint Cabinet paper by the Ministry of National Planning and FCS will be submitted, outlining a phased implementation plan for the proposed relocation.
“The FCS understands its obligations under the United Nations Minimum Standards,” Moceisuva said.
“However, the continuation of these issues could potentially see Fiji cited for failing to meet basic standards for correctional facilities. For security and operational reasons, the proposed facility should ideally be located on a suitable new site, taking into account the cost implications.”
