Escalating crime rates and drug trafficking have led the Great Council of Chiefs to request more robust measures and enhanced policing efforts. Chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula highlighted the chiefs’ deep concern following a recent presentation by the Police Commissioner, which detailed crime statistics specific to iTaukei communities.
The Council is advocating for stricter penalties for drug smugglers, emphasizing that current laws may be too lenient. Ratu Viliame expressed that the perceived leniency of the legal system may embolden smugglers to import hard drugs into the country. He reiterated the urgent calls for examining harsher sentencing guidelines, particularly for those involved in drug trafficking.
In addition to legal reform, the chiefs raised alarms regarding the Police Force’s resource limitations, noting footage from recent police raids that revealed significant equipment shortages. In response, the Council plans to submit a resolution urging the government to allocate more resources to the Police Force. They are also open to seeking support from donors if necessary.
Ratu Viliame acknowledged that combating crime effectively cannot rest solely on law enforcement; he stressed the importance of community involvement and collaboration with police to tackle this escalating issue. The call to action reflects a collective commitment to address and reduce the growing threat of crime and drug trafficking in the region, fostering a safer environment for all.
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