Ratu Josaia Niudamu has praised the establishment of the Narcotic Bureau and the allocation of funds to the Fiji Police Force for drug testing equipment, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to tackling the drug problem.
“I am also thankful that funding will be provided to the Fiji Police Force to procure drug testing equipment to ramp up drug tests across the country,” he said.
He acknowledged the creation of the Narcotic Bureau with a special drug unit within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing drug-related issues.
Mr. Niudamu also mentioned the Drug Rehabilitation Incentive Package, designed to encourage the private sector and civil society organizations to establish drug rehabilitation centers. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for individuals struggling with drug addiction, facilitating their reintegration into society.
The rise in hard drug use in Fiji is a growing concern, and Mr. Niudamu called on all Fijians to collaborate in addressing this issue.
“I am calling on all Fijians to work together and solve the issues of drugs as people are moving away from marijuana but are going into hard drugs, which is a very sad situation.”