The Fiji Police Force is currently investigating several pharmacies in the country that are accused of illegally selling or distributing syringes. Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations, Livai Driu, stated that this investigation follows significant drug busts related to methamphetamine.
Driu highlighted that numerous individuals apprehended during these raids were found in possession of needles, raising concerns about where they were acquiring them. “This leads us to further investigate the sources of these syringes,” he noted. The police are focusing their efforts primarily on pharmacies located in the Central and Southern Divisions.
Driu admitted that tracing the supply chain has been challenging, as many individuals arrested appear to be purchasing syringes from middlemen, making it difficult to identify the primary suppliers. He emphasized that for the past seven months, there has been a 37% increase in arrests related to methamphetamine possession, prompting intensified police operations.
He stressed the importance of integrity among pharmacies, stating that needles should only be prescribed by doctors, placing the responsibility on these pharmacies to act honestly. Driu also urged community members to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.