Fiji Police are investigating the theft of a 70-year-old Lord Hanuman statue from Wailailai Kuti in Ba, in an incident that has deeply distressed the Hindu community.
Police say the temple’s 68-year-old Assistant Treasurer discovered the statue missing on Wednesday morning and lodged a report. The 35cm-high idol, which was cemented to the floor, was removed overnight.
Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha President, Dhirendra Nand, described the theft as “deeply hurtful” and confirmed the organisation will conduct its own internal investigation alongside police inquiries. He told fijivillage that CCTV cameras are installed in the temple and urged authorities to examine the footage.
“We have confidence in the law and order of this country and in the Police Force. We hope the truth will come before the public very soon,” Nand said.
Nand also urged devotees not to be disheartened, as the incident coincided with the conclusion of Shree Krishn Janmashtami celebrations.
The theft follows a string of sacrilegious attacks on Hindu temples in Fiji. Last month, the Shiv Mandir in Samabula, Suva, was vandalised, with century-old idols damaged in a shocking act that drew condemnation from political and community leaders. Earlier in April, torn pages from the Ramayan were found scattered inside the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa.
Such incidents have recurred for decades, with Hindu leaders repeatedly calling for stronger security and decisive legal action to protect sacred spaces and symbols.
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