During a recent Macuata Provincial Council meeting held at Sasa Village near Labasa Town, Sireli Leweniqila, a representative from Udu district, emphasized the importance of a comprehensive assessment by law enforcement to identify areas within the region that are most affected by drug-related issues. Leweniqila, who previously served as the chairperson of the council and is also a notable Fijian politician, highlighted that many villages and settlements have yet to experience the challenges associated with drug use.
He noted that communities situated near urban centers tend to have greater access to drug-related information, which can unfortunately make residents vulnerable to both victimization and criminal behavior. To effectively tackle the drug problem, he proposed that law enforcement agencies, after completing their assessments, should engage with local traditional leaders to devise tailored strategies for each community.
Leweniqila stressed the necessity of imposing significant penalties on individuals convicted of drug possession, consumption, or trafficking to deter others from engaging in similar activities. He pointed out that smaller villages can be more effectively managed under the guidance of local leaders. However, with young individuals moving to cities or towns for work or education, the risk of exposure to drugs increases, leading some to make unwise choices driven by the temptation of quick financial gain.
Addressing the issue on a wider scale, Leweniqila remarked on the global nature of the methamphetamine crisis and acknowledged that, despite Fiji’s small size, it is not immune to such challenges. He called for enhanced border control measures—both on land and at sea—to protect future generations from the dangers of drug trafficking and abuse.
In closing, he reiterated that while Fiji is popularly known as the ‘Friendly Islands,’ it is crucial for both the government and law enforcement to enforce stricter laws to convey that drug-related offenses carry serious consequences.
This collective call to action reflects a proactive stance towards tackling drug issues in Fiji, demonstrating a commitment to safeguard the well-being of communities while fostering a collaborative approach that includes local leadership.
In summary, Sireli Leweniqila advocates for a thorough assessment of drug-related issues in Fiji’s communities, underscoring the role of local leadership and the necessity for stricter laws to combat drug offenses, ultimately aiming to protect the nation’s future generations. This positive movement towards collaboration can help cultivate safer environments across the country.
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