Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa emphasizes that comprehensive rehabilitation is crucial to breaking the cycle of addiction and reducing drug-related crimes and health issues. Dr. Nakarawa highlighted that the FCS faces significant challenges due to the rising traffic in hard drugs.
“The increase in drug trafficking and use has extensive consequences, affecting public health and safety and complicating operations within our correctional facilities,” he said. “Within our facilities, we struggle to control the use and smuggling of drugs.”
Dr. Nakarawa pointed out that remand centers, in particular, pose significant challenges due to their high turnover population. “Inmates under the influence of hard drugs often display aggressive and confrontational behavior, creating a volatile environment for staff and other inmates,” he noted.
Despite stringent security measures, drugs continue to be confiscated from various drop-off points around the facilities, including attempts to smuggle drugs by throwing them over the walls. “The increasing use of needles for drug injection is a primary contributor to the spike in HIV cases,” Dr. Nakarawa explained, adding that the deterioration of mental faculties among drug users also presents substantial challenges for the FCS.
Dr. Nakarawa affirmed their commitment to addressing these issues through rigorous measures and heightened vigilance but emphasized the need for community support. “We call upon parents, educators, and community leaders to join us in this fight,” he urged. “Preventing drug abuse begins with education and awareness. By working together, we can help prevent the spread of addiction and its associated harms.”
He also appealed to the government and health organizations to strengthen support for rehabilitation programs and provide resources for those affected by drug addiction. “Together, we can make a difference. Let us unite in our efforts to combat the hard drug crisis and protect the future of our young people and our nation,” he said.
The FCS is dedicated to maintaining security and safety within their facilities while providing rehabilitation and reintegration programs for inmates. “Our mission is to contribute to a safer community through effective correctional management and rehabilitation efforts,” concluded Dr. Nakarawa.