CARJACKING, THE NEXT CRIME MODE: CHANDRA
A Nabua resident is concerned that carjacking or robbing people inside their cars could be the next mode of crime.
This after he witnessed an unsuccessful attempt last week.
Jitesh Chandra, 39, was returning home last Thursday when he noticed the alleged incident taking place.
“It was a black SUV that exited Shalimar Street entering Grantham Road. The vehicle had not picked up speed, when suddenly a man crossed the street. He took his time, and even bent down to tie his shoe lace.
“The driver slowed down and came to a standstill. As this happened, I saw three men who ran up to the vehicle trying to open its doors. I think the vehicle was locked and the driver sped away.
“I was shocked and at the same time amazed. The coordination and timing of the people was like watching a movie,” he said. Mr Chandra was in the opposite lane, stuck in traffic.
He said this was just another level. The driver of the vehicle who wished to remain anonymous said he did not lodge a complaint with the Police because nothing was taken or damaged.
Police is encouraging members of the public to report any criminal activity.
This is just the beginning for the head boy of Christian Mission Fellowship College (CMFC) who aspires to be an aircraft engineer.
Life was not always a smooth ride for the sixteen-year-old, Taniela Benaca who had to transition from a rural school in Bau into a secondary school in Suva.
“I was the smallest boy in class, it was a little difficult to cope since I came from a village school. Coming to an urban area was a bit of a culture shock for me,” he said.
Former teacher, and proud mum Inieta Benaca said for her son, the transition was difficult.
“He went through the early years of his education in a rural school because we- his parents both taught in rural schools, he just had to come to secondary school when we came to Suva,” she said.
Mrs Benaca, who is from Taveuni, said that language was also a barrier and challenge for Taniela but she was glad, he overcame it.
“In rural schools, they converse in iTaukei most of the time, I can say that he had a culture-shock when he came, as everyone spoke in English.
“It made us proud that he picked it up in no time,” she said.
Head girl, Esther Fifita said without the support of her family, this day would not have been possible.
“I would like to dedicate this to my mum and dad who have been there for me throughout, especially to the Lord Almighty, my grandmother and my uncle, ” she said, Sixteen-year-old, with paternal links to Lau, said that it was her father’s dream for her to be a pilot and she will work hard to make it happen for him.
She wishes to carry on the leadership duties from the previous years and uphold the rules to the best of her abilities.
A total of 58 students were badged prefects at Christian Mission Fellowship College yesterday.