The Fiji Police Force is urging the public to report any knowledge of unreported or undisclosed criminal activities. This appeal follows a report from a community member in Labasa, who asserts that the Labasa Market has become a center for drug trafficking.
The individual claimed to have monitored the market over the last three months and observed a notable rise in drug dealers operating in the vicinity. He pointed out that while some drug peddlers are known to the public and police, certain officers have not taken action to address the problem.
On September 27, he attempted to inform the Labasa Market Police Post about the drug activities, advocating for an increased police presence. However, he was informed by the officer on duty that they were not aware of such incidents.
He reported that these drug dealers can be found near the market entrance on the side facing the bus terminal. The Labasa Town Council has installed numerous closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the market, but the whistleblower alleged that some dealers have tampered with these devices by applying chewing gum to their recording equipment.
He stated, “I have screenshot pictures of a man attempting to tamper with the CCTV that I managed to obtain.”
Waisea Makulau, vice-president of the Labasa Vendor and Farmer’s Association, urged vendors to steer clear of any involvement with the illegal drug trade. Paul Jaduram, the council’s special administrator chairperson, acknowledged that drug sales in the market remain a persistent issue. He emphasized the need for police officers to act impartially and perform their duties responsibly, and urged vendors to concentrate on enhancing their produce for increased profits rather than resorting to illegal activities.
Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander for the North, has expressed his willingness to engage with whistleblowers. He stated, “I wish that the whistleblower would approach me with his claims and evidence so we can conduct targeted raids.” SSP Baledrokadroka confirmed that the police would persist in their operations in Labasa and throughout other areas of Vanua Levu.