SUVA (The Fiji Times/PINA) — Fiji police believe the Immigration Department has to review the laws to curb the number of Asians entering and staying in the country illegally.
Police Commissioner Isikia Savua said it is becoming a concern for the police because of the number of violent crimes involving the country’s growing Asian population.
He was speaking after briefing the news media on investigations into the brutal murder of four Chinese nationals in Suva at the weekend.
There has been growing news media and public concern over the influx of mainly Chinese people, and activities they and other Asians are allegedly involved in.
Questions have been raised on how they managed to enter Fiji. An immigration rubber stamp was found in the possession of a Chinese national last year.
It is strongly suspected many enter the country on fishing vessels berthing at the Suva wharves. Once ashore they then work for other Asian business people in Fiji.
However, the Chinese Association of Fiji has defended its members, saying people should name the perpetrators and not blame the entire community for the misdeeds of a few.
Political parties called for funding and resources to be diverted to better monitor the movement of Asians, especially Chinese nationals who come to Fiji on work permits or as visitors.
Opposition leader Prem Singh said: “It’s about time that entry by Asians into the country be scrutinized because it’s becoming a matter of great concern to everyone.’’
Singh said the country was entering a new era of violence and the immigration department and police needed to be vigilant on the movement of illegal immigrants.
