AS the 2024 Coca-Cola Games approach, the police are poised to ensure the safety and security of all participants and attendees.
Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations (ACP) Livai Driu has announced comprehensive measures aimed at safeguarding secondary school athletes, supporters, parents and teachers throughout the event.
In a statement, ACP Driu highlighted the proactive strategies undertaken by police.
These include heightened police presence through school visitations alongside strategic meetings with nightclub operators to thwart any attempts by minors to access these venues during the games.
Moreover, officers have been mobilised from headquarters level and specialised units to reinforce security operations.
ACP Driu emphasised the collaborative role of community policing officers across all divisions working closely with school authorities to gather essential information on travel and accommodation arrangements for participating schools.
Traffic management remains a top priority, with awareness campaigns conducted in collaboration with the Land Transport Authority.
ACP Driu warned of strict enforcement measures, including flag confiscation and removal of unruly individuals from public transport, with repercussions for drivers who allow such behaviour.
In addition to ensuring road safety, the police are intensifying efforts to combat drug-related activities.
Specialised units such as the Fiji Detector Dog Unit (FDDU) and Police Dog Unit will be deployed to the games venue, complementing routine drug operations across all policing divisions.
ACP Driu also issued a heartfelt plea to parents and guardians, urging them to talk to their children about the adverse effects of substance abuse.
“We cannot rule out the fact that they may be exposed or lured into taking or selling drugs,” he said.
“Constant reinforcement of its consequences to one’s life, health and future is needed. The message needs to be emphasised to children every day, so they are not tempted to follow the wrong crowd.
“Our focus is not solely on the Coca-Cola Games. There are other sporting activities happening in other divisions, school camps and many other activities where children will be away from home.
“Talking about the consequences of not only drugs, but decisions made that are against what they have been taught, needs to be reinforced, particularly from home.”
ACP Driu is also calling for community support in safeguarding the welfare and well-being of students.
“Please, help us keep our children safe prior to, during and after the Coca-Cola Games and during their school holidays.
“Officers are being pushed forward to assist with operations at the ground in Suva and nearby areas in anticipation of the spill over from after the games.” || ACP Driu Cokes weekend || AS the 2024 Coca-Cola Games approach, the police department is poised to ensure safety and security of all participants and attendees.
