The Christmas spirit for one particular motorist has been soured no thanks to what he identified as drunks who loiter on the side of public roads and cause problems.

In the case of Tavita* and his wife, he said they are lucky to be unharmed after boys threw rocks at his vehicle when it reached Vailu’utai last Saturday night.  

Tavita said he and his wife were on their way to the Faleolo International Airport to drop off his brother when the boys started throwing rocks at passing vehicles.

He has filed a complaint with the Police.

Attempts to get an official response from the Police and the Vailu’utai Village Council yesterday were unsuccessful. 

But Tavita spoke to the Samoa Observer because he wanted to urge motorists to be alert on the public roads during this festive season.

Tavita also called on Village Councils and Village Mayors in Samoa to be more vigilant in monitoring the activities of young men and women who drink and loiter on public roads, especially at night. 

Tavita said the incident occurred near the Latter Day Saints chapel at Vailu’utai. 

According to Tavita, when he pulled over at the chapel, he noticed the left tail light of his car was damaged, which he estimated to cost about $1,000 tala.  

Tavita said the men were drunk and he did not think it was a good idea to argue with them so they just proceeded. But he filed a Police report on Monday and the Samoa Observer understands the Police are investigating.

Today, he is advising all motorists to be aware and be careful on the roads as the festive season continues.

“I was driving at 30 miles per hour. We did not mind them or say anything to them but unfortunately that did not save our vehicle from being targeted,” he said.

 “I personally think it is in the best interest of everyone’s safety that villages be strict on drinking on the main roads. They should drink and celebrate at their homes not on the roads.”

*The motorist only wanted to be identified as “Tavita” fearing reprisals for him and his family.