Fijian police did not make any social gathering breach arrests overnight, the first in 29 days since the country imposed COVID-19 restrictions beginning March 30.
The only arrests made between 10pm Monday April 27 and 5am today were for breach of curfew – four in all; two in the South and one each in the North and West.
Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho said they anticipated the change in numbers due to relaxation of restrictions, but re-emphasised the need to remain vigilant.
“Physical distancing and avoiding the sharing of bilos and glasses during any social gathering is still being emphasized, and again, if you don’t need to leave your home, please do the right thing, and stay home,” Brig-Gen Qiliho said.
Police officers will also be monitoring jetties and wharves to ensure compliance of physical distancing measures following the lifting of inter-island passenger travels.
“More police officers will also be pushed forward to our jetties and wharves to ensure compliance of restriction measures to avoid overcrowding which was witnessed last night in Suva.
“Police were present, however a sudden heavy downpour that occurred while boarding was taking place led to the sudden rush for shelter inside the boat.”
Ship operators, he said should also do their part in implementing distancing measures onboard their vessels. Police will also work with officials from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji and Fiji Ports in this regard.
