Authorities in Fiji are investigating two separate incidents involving Virgin Australia crew members, one of which involves an alleged sexual assault and the other a robbery, that occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Eve in the popular tourist city of Nadi.
The incidents reportedly took place after the crew members left a nightclub in Nadi, a well-known destination for international travelers, including those from Australia. The Fijian police have questioned a suspect in connection with the alleged sexual assault. The individual is known to local authorities, and investigations are ongoing. No further details about the suspect have been disclosed at this stage.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka, expressed concern over the events, stating that the government’s thoughts are with the affected crew members, and emphasized that their health and well-being are a priority. The crew members were on an overnight layover in Fiji at the time of the incidents and are currently staying in a local hotel. They are expected to return to Australia by the end of the week.
Virgin Australia confirmed it was aware of the allegations and had dispatched staff to support the affected crew members. The airline refrained from commenting further on the matter. As of now, the Australian government has not made a public statement regarding the incidents.
The Fijian government has emphasized the importance of exercising caution, particularly in nightclub areas and late at night, while also acknowledging that incidents like these can occur anywhere. Fiji, a popular destination for tourists from Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, received nearly 77,000 visitors in November 2024 alone, according to the latest tourism statistics.
Australia’s official travel advice for Fiji maintains a low-risk rating, advising travelers to exercise normal safety precautions, which is the government’s most basic level of recommendation. Despite this, the events underscore the importance of vigilance when traveling abroad, particularly in unfamiliar nightlife settings.
