STATEMENT

Police officers had to intervene and disperse crowds gathered at My Suva Park and Suva Point this morning as a proactive step in the wake of growing concerns of people not adhering to precautionary health measures.

We understand that there were some who were genuinely at the Park for health reasons with the intention of exercising, but there were quite a number of people who were gathered in groups and not adhering to the precautionary measures as outlined by the Ministry of Health.

We have been receiving reports from individuals who were concerned for their wellbeing as they witnessed many who were disregarding precautionary health measures such as the wearing of masks and physical distancing.

Reports were also received that many were gathering in numbers and were not seen to be doing any form of physical exercises.

Police had on previous occasions dispersed people from the area for these reasons and similarly the Suva City Council had raised concerns about the removal of tapes that were used to cordon off exercise equipment and sitting areas.

Officers had to take this approach for everyone’s safety.

We request that Fijians do not take advantage of the opportunity allowed by the Ministry of Health to conduct physical exercises as there are many who are genuine in their intentions of trying to achieve a healthier life.

We will continue to monitor these areas to ensure compliance of health measures and ask that people be considerate of others.

ACTING COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

Rusiate Tudravu