A suspected new species of termite is causing a major threat to wooden buildings and forestry in the areas around Lautoka and a Government taskforce has been established to counter an outbreak.

The Ministry of Forestry, the termite appears to be a new species and specimens of the termite have been sent to the Department of Primary Industries in Brisbane, Australia, for authentication.

According to a report by the Forestry Department, termite infestations in wooden building in Fiji have never been a serious issue until now.
 
The report notes that the current method of the attack has serious repercussions and it is vital to note the extent of damage it is capable of sustaining.  
 
The Ministry said structural damage may result from severe infestation putting the structure at risk and in case of buildings; it will pose a serious threat to its occupants.
 
According to Acting Senior Bio security Officer (West) Lemeki Ratucicivi, initial surveys so far have indicated the presence of these termites in Lautoka's rural and suburban areas running from Natabua to Vitogo.
 
He said so far they have identified 74 houses within that boundary that have been infested by this pest and most of the affected houses are located in the Tavakubu, Tawatawa, and Naikabula areas.

Other infected areas include Anian Road in Vitogo, California Road in Lovu, Natabua, Saru, Tomuka and Vaivai.
 
The Government task force is being headed by the Commissioner Western Joeli Cawaki and Senior Officials from the Ministry of Forestry and Primary Industries will travel to Lautoka this week to assess the situation.