Road incidents continue to be a major concern for Cook Islands Police, with another weekend of crashes and collisions, tragically including one that resulted in the fatality of a 39-year-old.

Cook Islands Police Service yesterday confirmed the 39-year-old man who tragically lost his life early Saturday in a road incident died due to a serious head injury sustained in a road collision.

According to police media and strategic advisor, Trevor Pitt, police were called at 1.08am Saturday to attend the incident at Avatiu.

The deceased was immediately admitted to the hospital where he was unfortunately pronounced dead.

Road incidents remain a major concern, with four crashes reported to the Police over the weekend; three of those incidents were minor.

Over the weekend, police conducted traffic enforcement resulting in several actions.

Three drivers were asked to undergo blood analysis.

One man was arrested and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday after his blood analysis showed a result exceeding the legal limit.

Additionally, more than a dozen drivers received warnings from Police regarding their vehicle responsibilities and were advised to reduce their speed.

Police also stopped three teenagers from driving, two of whom were under the legal driving age.

The issue of stunt driving by young individuals in the Avatiu valley area continues to be a matter of concern.

Meanwhile, Cook Islands Police is advising the public and visitors to reconsider taking personal or important belongings to the beach or open areas to prevent public theft.

Police were called on Sunday at 11:24am after two couples reported their belongings stolen while swimming in the lagoon near Enua Manea Hall.

“The victimisation of tourists by thieves is an ongoing concern, and not just for the Police. A collective effort to better advise our visitors about the risks of taking valuables to the beach will support preventative steps,” Pitt said.

“This area of Tikioki is one of a number of hotspots around Rarotonga where thieves will take advantage of unattended bags and belongings, or unlocked vehicles. Valuable items like phones, cash, and jewellery are irreplaceable and the inconvenience of losing cards and licenses can have a multiplying effect on the spread of negativity around visiting Rarotonga.

“All our tourists need to be made aware of the risks associated with driving and enjoying the beach and lagoon. Some friendly local advice can save a lot of heartache!”