The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning after some young people from Ifira had been out clubbing and were returning home.

According to police, the young people approached taxi and bus drivers who were waiting in town for cruise ship passengers.

Tension reportedly escalated after the young people, who were allegedly drunk, approached the drivers and asked them for money, leading to a confrontation and fighting.

Police Intervene

Commander South Samson Garae says police have intervened following the incident involving the young people from Ifira and transport drivers, including members of families from Tanna.

He says the situation has been brought under control with assistance from the Ifira safety team, and those involved are now under police investigation.

Garae says some of the main individuals involved are expected to be remanded as the investigation continues.

Leaders Agree on Reconciliation

Police have met with the Ifira safety team and chiefs to discuss the situation.

Garae says there is an understanding that police will deal with the incident while the safety teams return to carry out awareness with young people from Ifira and the Tanna community.

Police are also appealing to families to remain calm and allow the investigation to continue.

A reconciliation process has also been agreed, with a date to be set for the public to witness the occasion and help restore peace, safety and security within the community.

Police Appeal for Community Support

Garae is appealing to chiefs and safety teams in other communities where similar incidents may be occurring to continue working together to keep communities safe.

He says cooperation between police, chiefs and community safety teams is important to prevent tensions from escalating and to maintain peace within communities.