Police operations have geared up for various New Year’s celebrations throughout the country.
Chief of Operations ACP Rusiate Tudravu says there will be increased visibility with manpower and resources pushed forward for maximum coverage in towns, suburbs and in rural areas where mobile patrols will also be beefed up.
He says those intending to attend the street parties should adhere to the rules in place of an alcoholic free event as they want everyone to enjoy themselves without any major incident.
Tudravu adds most importantly safety of the children must be prioritized at all times.
Meanwhile, Police have sent a stern warning to all nightclub operators in the country to be responsible after growing concerns about the number of underaged students seen in nightclubs in the past few weeks.
Tudravu says police officers cannot be at all nightclubs to check for identification cards and this is why they are calling for responsible bouncers.
Tudravu says they can enter a nightclub at any time for inspection as it is their prerogative.
Fijivillage has continued to notice many underaged students entering the nightclubs over the past few weeks.
Many have also been seen drinking alcohol at different spots.
According to the Liquor Act, a nightclub operator who sells or supplies liquor to any person under the age of 21 years commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
If a nightclub operator allows a person under the age of 21 years to enter or remain in the nightclub during official opening hours they are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $200.
