FIJI – Fiji’s Commissioner of Police said the main purpose of the Restriction of Movement order is to prevent loitering so that people who are not on essential duties can be ordered away from dangerous situations.

Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho said despite numerous weather advisories and warnings, there are still people, mainly children frequenting flooded swimming spots around the country.

Qiliho said the flooded drains and rivers are not safe for people.

“Flooded drains, creeks and rivers are not safe to swim in during this period as there may be health risks associated with it as there are reports of sewerage spill over and also the risk of losing one’s life in the strong currents.

“We are going to pick up people that are swimming in areas that we come across. If we tell them to go and they don’t we will pick them up and bring them to the police station.”

Qiliho said the police force will come down hard on people who are found loitering.

“People that are in town who need to go home will go home – and if people don’t adhere to these warnings we are going to charge people for loitering, which is a chargeable offence.”

With the heavy downpours experienced over the past few days and cyclonic weather continuing, water levels at various swimming spots continue to rise and now roads and business centres are flooded as well, he said.

“Therefore, it is our primary role to warn people of their safety and plead with them to take heed of weather advisories.”

Brigadier-General Qiliho said that all schools have been closed and parents need to be mindful of their roles.

“We wish to remind parents, guardians and members of the community at large to be mindful of their supervisory roles.

Qiliho said police officers will be out in numbers during this time and will not hesitate in taking people in if they are seen to be engaged in activities that may risk their lives.

Hong Kong 7s fans love Fiji

FIJI – Hong Kong Sevens tournament organiser Sean Moore said the tournament would not be the same without Fiji.

In an interview with the Fiji Times Moore said the tournament – which is underway again this weekend – would not be as famous without the Fijian players who had displayed magnificent sevens talents and skills that have made the tournament a success.

“We absolutely love it. The Cathay Pacific-HSBC Hong Kong Sevens would not be the same without Fiji and I think it is fair to say that the Hong Kong Sevens has helped in establishing Fiji’s image in world rugby as one of the most enjoyable teams to watch.

“I don’t think that the Hong Kong Sevens would be as famous as it is today without the many Fijian teams that have brought effortless grace and style to the event, along with an exuberant willingness to throw the ball around the park and attack from every phase – it is a non-stop highlights reel that has been going on for over 35 years.

Fiji has recorded the most wins in Hong Kong compared to any other teams. Since the inception of the tournament in 1976, Fiji has won 15 titles.

- Fiji Times