Nadi Chamber Urges Prompt Activation of Tourism Police Unit Amid Harassment Complaints

The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry calls for the immediate activation of the Tourism Police Unit in Nadi following a surge in complaints regarding harassment from vendors and unethical retailers in Nadi Town.

Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Dr. Ram Raju, stated in a recent post on the “Fiji Holiday - Information Group,” which has around 35,000 members on Facebook, that a tourist alleged she was grabbed by the hand and forcefully told to enter a particular shop for handicrafts and gifts.

In another group, “Fiji Island Holidaying Discussion Group,” with over 61,000 members on Facebook, tourists have also shared posts detailing similar incidents.

Doctor Raju emphasises that such posts serve as a wake-up call and are highly detrimental to Nadi’s reputation as a tourist destination. All the relevant stakeholders need to be proactive and take necessary steps in advance to avoid such incidents in the future.

He emphasises the need for an increased presence of police officers in the town, as well as regular patrols to discourage vendors and businesses that promote such practices.

The chamber is currently seeking information and clarification from Tourism Fiji and the Fiji Police regarding their stance and plans on the matter.