During the Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament at Prince Charles Park, packets suspected to hold illicit substances were discovered, prompting immediate action from the tournament organizers. Tournament director Jeff Tamata emphasized the need for legal compliance among spectators to ensure a safe and orderly event. He expressed gratitude towards the Fiji Police Force for their robust support in maintaining security during the tournament.
Tamata noted that ongoing public announcements were made to remind attendees to adhere to the law throughout the event. “We have been warning the spectators over the intercom all throughout the day to be mindful,” he stated, describing the proactive approach taken to mitigate potential issues.
On the second day of the tournament, police efforts intensified as an individual was found in possession of the illicit substances during a search operation. In response to these discoveries, the police increased their presence on the final day, deploying sniffer dogs to monitor the entrance and continually inspect the grandstand and embankment areas.
These developments come against the backdrop of increasing concerns about drug use in sports, which the tournament has publicly denounced in collaboration with law enforcement. Eparama Sailo, the Executive Director of the Nawaka 7s, previously launched a campaign advocating for a drug-free environment in athletics, underscoring the message that “drugs have no place in sports.” Such measures aim to protect both the integrity of the event and the well-being of the community.
The commitment to maintaining a secure and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants reflects a positive step towards ensuring that sports serve as a platform for uplifting youth and promoting healthy lifestyles. The collaborative efforts between tournament officials and the Fiji Police illustrate a unified stance against substance abuse, fostering hope for a cleaner and safer sporting experience in the future.
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