Fiji has seen a troubling rise in illicit drug cases, with a total of 2,446 incidents recorded between May 2024 and May 2025. The rise in drug use is particularly concerning among young people aged 18 to 35, who accounted for the majority of offenders. This was highlighted by Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu during his recent address on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Suva.
Of these cases, the vast majority—2,098—were related to marijuana, while 343 involved methamphetamine, and just five pertained to cocaine. Alarmingly, the statistics also suggest that children are not immune to this crisis. Fifty juvenile offenders under the age of 18 were recorded, three of whom were found in possession of methamphetamine.
Commissioner Tudravu revealed a steady increase in drug cases over recent years, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and collaborative efforts in combating this growing issue. Data from previous years indicate that methamphetamine cases have been on the rise—from just 100 in 2020 to 366 by 2024. This troubling trend has prompted calls for proactive measures to improve substance abuse awareness and prevention, particularly targeting the younger demographic.
In addition, since the launch of Operation Sasamaki in March 2025, law enforcement agencies have scored notable successes, seizing close to five tonnes of marijuana and significant amounts of methamphetamine. The operation has focused on tackling the entire drug supply chain and highlights the critical need for community support and involvement to effectively address illegal drug activities.
Tudravu’s address underscored the belief that combating drug-related challenges requires collective responsibility as families, communities, and as a nation. He expressed hope that through open dialogue and shared initiatives, Fiji can work towards reducing drug use and creating a healthier environment for future generations. The ongoing commitment to engage communities actively has led to a more hopeful outlook on tackling this pressing issue, demonstrating that united efforts can pave the way toward a drug-free future.
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