Tahiti's recent news roundup for February 2025 has showcased significant events ranging from public safety scares to community celebrations, reflecting the vibrant and sometimes tumultuous life on the island.
One of the most pressing concerns has been the escape of a prisoner during psychiatric treatment. The individual, imprisoned for aggravated robbery, reportedly bolted from Tokani clinic after being transferred for treatment on the weekend of February 20. Allegedly spotted around Faaa and Papeete, he's described as armed with a knife, which has heightened fears among residents.
"Moi je m'enferme chez moi depuis, en plus je suis toute seule," confided one local resident from Teva I Uta as the news of his escape circulated on social media. The authorities have yet to confirm many details surrounding his escape, including whether he truly was taken away by gendarmes after being apprehended by locals. A search alert has been issued, yet it remains somewhat under the public radar, emphasizing the mixed signals from local law enforcement. With additional concerns about the prisoner's potential travel to the nearby islands, the community's anxiety is palpable, illustrating the pervasive nature of fear even amid the natural beauty of Tahiti.
Meanwhile, the sports scene is heating up as the Federation polynésienne de rugby (FPR) is launching its innovative "challenge à X", which aims to bridge the gap between rugby sevens and rugby fifteens. Scheduled to commence on Thursday evening at the Fautaua Stadium, this competition is crafted to provide players with transitional experience and adapt skills required for more traditional forms of rugby.
According to Gilles Laffite, the technical supervisor at the FPR, "Après le championnat de rugby à VII, c’est très intéressant de passer par cette forme de jeu." He elaborated on how this format caters to various player sizes and helps refine skill sets within the game. Six local clubs, including Pirae, Papeete, and Paea Manu Ura, are expected to participate, promising to create dynamic matches across the three-day event.
The challenge format combines the exciting aspects of rugby sevens with the tactical demands of rugby fifteens by allowing three additional players on the field. This results in more spacious play areas, encouraging all players to engage effectively. Laffite emphasizes the mission: "Il faut que les joueurs et les joueuses jouent. Il n’y a que comme ça que l’on progresse."
Away from the field, there was also alarming news on the roads. Two youths were struck by a vehicle on the evening of February 21, near the quarter of Papara. Riding on the same bicycle, they were thrown violently to the ground. Thankfully, initial reports indicate their lives are not at risk, but their injuries indicate the necessity for greater road safety awareness. The incident has prompted local authorities to initiate an investigation to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the accident. The driver of the vehicle involved also suffered injuries, underscoring the rampant dangers on the island's roads, especially for cyclists.
On a brighter note, local celebrations were held for Dina Bessert, who recently turned 100 years old. Renowned as Faa’a’s oldest resident, she was recognized for her remarkable life and community impact. During her birthday celebration, Robert Maker, the first deputy mayor, visited her to pay respects. Once described as dynamic even at 97 years old, she drove herself around and took care of her errands. Her daughter, Diana, recounted, "À 97 ans, elle conduisait encore. Elle allait faire ses courses, passait sa tondeuse de temps en temps."
Recognizing her longevity, the community attributes her health to traditional Tahitian cuisine, encapsulated by the simple statement: "ma’a Tahiti, poissons du lagon, fe’i, bananes, ufi et lait de coco." Such life milestones remind residents of the joie de vivre and connection to their cultural roots, contrasting sharply with recent events on the island.
Overall, February 2025 has highlighted the diverse narratives shaping Tahiti, where troubling incidents co-exist with inspiring celebrations, painting a complex but vibrantly human picture of island life.