The Fiji Police Force has announced that 76 individuals have been apprehended across the nation this week on various drug-related charges. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, emphasized that police are conducting daily arrests linked to drug offenses and plan to intensify their efforts during the festive season.
Among those arrested, the oldest was a 64-year-old man taken into custody at the Ba fish market with seven sachets of dried leaves suspected to be marijuana. A 63-year-old carpenter from Bua was also arrested at his home with five green plants believed to be marijuana.
Additional arrests included a 58-year-old man from Lautoka, who was caught with a shopping bag containing dried leaves suspected to be marijuana along with over three thousand dollars that are believed to be proceeds from illegal activities. Other arrests comprised a 53-year-old farmer from Labasa and a 52-year-old bowser attendant from Wainibokasi, both found with sachets of dried marijuana.
The youngest individual arrested was a 19-year-old farmer, detained in Savusavu for possessing five clear plastics containing what is believed to be marijuana. Moreover, a 19-year-old female from Nadi and her 25-year-old friend were taken into custody after failing to pay their taxi fare; during a search, they also had sachets of marijuana.
One notable case involved a 29-year-old man from Makoi, who attempted to bribe the arresting officer with cash during his apprehension for possession of two sachets of suspected marijuana.
ACP Driu stated that these arrests have resulted from various methods, including stop searches, roadblocks, and raids, reinforced by the assistance of their K-9 Unit. He highlighted ongoing efforts for community awareness and engagement as they continue to combat drug-related crimes.
This proactive approach may lead to a safer environment as the police work diligently to curb drug offenses during a time when celebration and gatherings are common. The ongoing commitment to addressing these issues can foster a more secure community and potentially reduce drug-related incidents moving forward.
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