Police ready to combat a potential increase in crime rate if nationwide curfew is lifted - Qiliho

Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho says they have enough resources to combat a potential situation if there is an increase in criminal activities following the lifting of the curfew.

A number of people have contacted Fijivillage and have raised concerns that there may be an increase in criminal activities if the curfew is lifted due to the high rate of unemployment.

When questioned if this is a possibility, Qiliho says they are aware that some members of the public do not want the curfew to be lifted but it is the government’s decision and the Fiji Police Force must posture themselves accordingly.

Qiliho says it is important that they are postured and ready when the social implications start to come into the criminal landscape.

He adds the curfew has assisted them in a lot of ways from the policing perspective in terms of restricting the movement of people which normally happens at night.

The nationwide curfew from 10pm to 5am remains in place.