SUVA (Pacnews) — Fiji’s Immigration Department has admitted it can’t curb the influx of illegal Asians entering the country.
The disclosure has set off alarm bells in Fiji.
Fiji is grappling with the growing crime rate within the Asian migrant community, who have only recently taken up residency in Fiji.
A growing number of Asians—mainly of Chinese origin—have come into Fiji under a business investment scheme. Most have set up small restaurants and corner stores throughout Fiji and also have been snapping up houses in upper class suburbs, paying well over the market rate.
Other illegal Asian immigrants have slipped into the country through major airports and seaports. Some have become involved in a variety of criminal activities, including money laundering and drug trafficking.
The Immigration Department’s admission of its shortcomings in stemming the influx has prompted Police Commissioner Isikia Savua to offer police assistance in tracking down illegal migrants.
But Savua said police must be given increased manpower and equipment to help the Immigration Department.
He also has publicly called for amendments to Fiji’s immigration laws to strengthen enforcement—a call that has yet to draw a government response.
