Assailants Attempt to Force Teenager to Take Needle in Nausori Tunnel

A shocking incident in Nausori has raised alarm among parents and residents after two teenage boys allegedly tried to force a 17-year-old schoolboy to take a needle.

The student was walking home around 4pm on Tuesday and had taken the usual shortcut through the tunnel beneath the Nausori Bridge — a route frequently used by students — when he was approached and blocked by the pair.

“One of them pulled out a needle and tried to pressure him into taking it,” said concerned parent Mel Manuku. “This wasn’t random. It felt planned — and it was extremely dangerous.”

Manuku, an aunt of the victim, said the situation could have escalated if not for a group of nearby passersby whose sudden appearance caused the suspects to flee.

Parents are now being urged to warn their children and to avoid letting them walk through the tunnel alone.

“This is serious. Please talk to your kids. If they have to go that way, make sure they’re in a group or find another route,” Manuku said.

Police have not yet released an official statement, but calls for increased patrols and immediate investigation are growing.

Anyone with information is urged to come forward.