The Fiji Police Force, in collaboration with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC), has launched Fiji’s inaugural wastewater drug monitoring program. This pilot initiative, influenced by Australia’s established system for tracking drug consumption trends, aims to enhance public safety and health in the region.
Developed alongside The University of Queensland and the University of the South Pacific, the program will collect and analyze wastewater samples from various locations throughout Fiji. Testing will occur every three months, promising to deliver the most reliable national overview of drug use and emerging threats in the country.
This cutting-edge initiative will monitor a total of 12 substances, both licit and illicit, including methylamphetamine, amphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, MDA, heroin, fentanyl, ketamine, oxycodone, cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine. The ACIC emphasizes that wastewater monitoring has been essential to Australia’s drug-intelligence efforts, and Fiji’s adoption of this model signifies a significant advancement in regional collaboration against drug challenges.
Both the Fiji Police Force and the ACIC are united in their view that this program showcases their dedication to fostering community safety, improving public health, and implementing innovative, science-based strategies to combat drug-related issues across the Pacific. The shared commitment to addressing drug threats through rigorous data collection highlights a progressive step for Fiji in safeguarding its communities.
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