Fiji police are investigating allegations of theft and sexual assault against two Virgin Australia crew members who were attacked in a nightclub area in Nadi on New Year’s Day. The incidents, which occurred early in the morning, left the crew members shaken.
Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka said the alleged attacks took place in the city’s nightlife district, where two separate incidents involving theft and sexual assault occurred. A suspect known to police is being questioned over one of the alleged assaults.
The affected crew members are currently at a local hotel used by Virgin Australia for layovers and will return home this week after assisting with the investigation. The airline has sent representatives to provide support to its staff.
Fiji’s government has issued a warning to tourists, reminding them to exercise caution in nightclub areas and late at night. The country’s crime rate increased by 6% last month compared to the same period last year, according to police statistics.
As Fiji relies heavily on its tourism industry, which attracts nearly one million visitors annually, authorities are taking these incidents seriously. A similar incident occurred last month when seven foreign tourists were hospitalized after consuming cocktails at a resort bar, although they later tested negative for poisoning or illicit substance use.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/virgin-australia-crewmembers-sexual-assault-theft-allegations-fiji