Sevaci farmer raises concerns over ongoing kava theft in Vaturova

Rosa Chute, a farmer from Sevaci in Vaturova has raised serious concerns over the increasing number of kava thefts in her community.

While speaking at the Fijian Media Association’s Meet the Public and the Press session in Labasa, Chute highlighted that between January and March this year, her farm was targeted four times, with suspects confidently walking in and stealing kava plants in broad daylight.

She says they have monitored that in their farming community, they experience at least three cases of kava theft every week.

She says that while many police reports have been lodged, the community raised that there’s no need to file complaints because of the lack of action from the authorities.

Chute stressed that the main issue is the lack of police presence.

The farm owner says that although there should be 11 officers stationed in Korotasere, currently only five are active and they lack the necessary resources to respond effectively.

Chute says this is a large area with over 4,500 people and if there are no vehicles available, at least give the officers horses so they can reach the people.

Responding to these concerns, Acting Police Commissioner Aporosa Lutunauga says the Fiji Police Force is awaiting the start of the new financial year to bring in 500 recruits to strengthen their ground operations.

Lutunauga says they are already carrying out operations in the North and in Taveuni, specifically targeting kava theft, and they will continue to do so.

He advised members of the public who have concerns or information to contact the police directly at 9904902.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad said the government is allocating additional resources to the police to boost manpower and tackle persistent crimes like the theft of green kava.

Professor Prasad also confirmed that nine individuals have already been arrested in connection with kava thefts.

Police have had talks with Chute after the forum.

We are now monitoring the developments.