Robberies in cyclone
THIEVES went on a stealing spree as members of the public were safely tucked away at the height of Tropical Cyclone Joni in 1992.
This, according to an article in The Fiji Times on December 12, 1992.
The thieves struck between 6.30pm and 10pm when Lautoka was plunged into darkness because of fallen power lines.
Police suspected the same gang broke into Prouds on Vakabale St and Ba Motor Parts store on Namoli Ave.
They raided Chew Kit’s tea room on Vitogo Pde and made off with cash.
Detectives at that time were working around the clock in an effort to catch the gang.
The article stated the car, believed to be the getaway vehicle, was chased by police van and abandoned at Vesi Crescent.
Police arrived at the scene to find the car’s engine running, lights on and parked against a fence near the Compac AWA building.
It was reported they followed a track through waist-high grass after abandoning the car.
The thieves were forced to leave the car after its axle broke.
The thieves also forced open the main door of the Prouds shop and stole watches and duty free items worth more than $10,000.
Meanwhile, on the weather, hotels in the West reported minor damage and said their guests, some of whom left Nadi the day before.
Treasure Island Resort staff members said by telephone that they had experienced strong winds on high seas a day earlier.
Their 33 guests were safe and the resort had enough food and water to handle them.
Most of the guests on Treasure and Beachcomber Islands were from Australia.
Reef Hotel public relations officer at the time, Una Murray, said the Sigatoka coast had faced winds of about 60 knots but little damage had been caused.
“Our guests are safe. There was no danger from the cyclone,” she said.
“The strongest winds hit the hotel between 1am and 4am and the power went off.
“We are now using our emergency generators.”
Shangri-La Fijian resort also confirmed of the strong winds felt as some trees and bushes were blown down by strong winds, but there was no damage to the resort and their 480 guests were safe and sound.
Despite the hit of the cyclone, it was reported majority of Fiji hotels were still expecting tourists.
Vatulele Resort owner Henry Crawford said there was no “guest damage” but their cleanup would take up to five days.
Yasawa Lodge owner Max Storck said “phenomenal waves” pounded the area.
Our guests are safe. There was no danger from the cyclone.
– Una Murray