Six to seven taxi drivers are reportedly affected by robbery and assault incidents every month, and this has left them fearing for their lives.

While speaking to Fiji One News, Fiji Zone Taxi Association Spokesman, Mohammed Shameem says that the attacks are becoming a serious concern for drivers who are simply trying to provide a service and earn a living.

During an interview with Fiji One News, Fiji Zone Taxi Association Spokesperson Mohammed Shameem, highlights that the robberies and assault incidents are putting drivers at serious risk and stronger action is needed to protect them while they are on the road.

“We came to know there’s about six to seven drivers every month and in two cases where they almost lost their lives” Shameem highlighted.

The concerns raised by taxi operators have drawn a strong response from Government, with the Assistant Minister for Transportation acknowledging that drivers should not be subjected to violence while carrying out an essential public service.
“The government is extremely concerned with that because when they assault drivers, when the drivers are being assaulted, you know, hit, robbed, that’s not right. That’s not proper” Tuinceva said.

Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, urges taxi operators to stay cautious, warning that offenders will face the consequences.
“It doesn’t pay to break the law, but the bottom line is that you cross the line, you get caught, you face the consequences of it” Naivalurua said.

The association is now calling for stronger penalties and greater protection for taxi operators, making sure they can return home safely after providing a service to the public.

By: Joeli Ragoneliwa