Law enforcement has made significant progress in the ongoing battle against drug abuse, with 18 individuals arrested this year for drug possession. Among those apprehended are two juveniles, with one being a 17-year-old student caught in Lami Village on New Year’s Day, in possession of a zip-lock bag and five sachets of dried leaves believed to be marijuana. The other juvenile, a 16-year-old from Nauluvatu, was found with 11 sachets of the same substance.
The arrests extend to various individuals, including a 30-year-old baker and a 35-year-old farmer, both of whom were nabbed with multiple sachets of dried leaves consistent with marijuana. The police also rounded up a 42-year-old man at a taxi stand in Labasa with similar illegal substances, reflecting a concentrated effort to clamp down on drug distribution in public areas.
In an ongoing effort, arrests are being made almost daily, including four young men in Lautoka who were found with a sizeable 48 sachets. In a separate incident, a 58-year-old man in Suva was apprehended for possessing eight sachets, while two others were arrested in Nausori and Waqadra, respectively, for possession of methamphetamine — a clear indication of the diverse range of drugs on the market.
The police also discovered containers with 334 marijuana plants during a recent training exercise, further emphasizing the depth of the drug issue at hand. The focus on combatting this problem is supported by community leaders, as highlighted by Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu. He urges collective effort in this fight, recognizing that community involvement is crucial to safeguard the future of the youth.
In summary, the crackdown on drug possession illustrates a proactive approach by law enforcement, emphasizing the collaboration between the police and community stakeholders. This united front against drug abuse fosters hope for a healthier future for local youth, and reinforces the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the integrity of communities.
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