The Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS), Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, emphasizes that comprehensive rehabilitation is crucial for curbing addiction and reducing drug-related crimes and health problems.
Dr. Nakarawa acknowledges the substantial challenges faced by the FCS due to the growing traffic in hard drugs. “This surge in drug trafficking and usage has extensive repercussions, affecting public health and safety and complicating operations within our correctional facilities,” he explained.
He highlighted the ongoing struggles within correctional facilities to control drug use and smuggling. Remand centers, in particular, face significant issues due to their high-turnover population. “Inmates under the influence of hard drugs often display aggressive and confrontational behaviors, creating a volatile atmosphere for both staff and fellow inmates,” Dr. Nakarawa noted.
Despite strict security protocols, drugs continue to be confiscated from various drop-off points around the facilities, including through attempts to smuggle drugs by throwing them over the walls. The increasing use of needles for drug injection has also been identified as a major factor in the rise of HIV cases, along with the deteriorating mental health of drug users, presenting further substantial challenges for the FCS.
Dr. Nakarawa reaffirmed the FCS’s commitment to addressing these issues through rigorous measures and heightened vigilance, stressing the need for community support. “We call upon parents, educators, and community leaders to join us in this fight,” he urged. “Preventing drug abuse starts with education and awareness. By working together, we can prevent the spread of addiction and its associated harms.”
He also appealed to the government and health organizations to enhance 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.”
Dr. Nakarawa added that 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,” he concluded.