Fighting against drug trafficking requires a strong political resolve, as emphasized by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku during the Fiji Law Society convention in Nadi. He presented the ongoing challenges authorities face and underscored the necessity for enhanced border surveillance and collaboration with Pacific neighbors, including Australia and New Zealand, who are major consumers of illicit drugs entering Fiji.
Rabuku recounted his experiences while gathering evidence for the trial of convicted drug trafficker Justin Ho, who orchestrated the smuggling of over four tonnes of meth into Fiji. He expressed frustration with the limited resources available, noting that the navy currently operates only two boats, which directs attention towards the urgent need for increased funding to agencies responsible for border control.
“If a minister is devoted to fighting drugs, appropriate resources should be allocated to agencies managing both internal and external borders,” Rabuku explained. He called for a commitment to reinforce Fiji’s borders to better combat drug smuggling.
Moreover, Rabuku highlighted integrity issues within enforcement agencies, revealing that drug cartels have infiltrated border control personnel. Such vulnerabilities not only undermine law enforcement efforts but also propagate a culture of corruption, as interpolating officers are sometimes pressured to overlook illegal activities. Rabuku asserted that capacity building and a commitment to upholding ethical standards within these agencies are crucial to curbing drug trafficking effectively.
In a related development, Fiji Police Force is advocating for expanded powers to better address transnational and organized crime. Assistant Police Commissioner Mesake Waqa shared insights into their recent submissions for a review of the Police Act, aiming to incorporate modern technologies and ensure human rights are respected while enhancing law enforcement’s capabilities.
Waqa pointed out legislative gaps regarding the regulation of over-the-counter drugs used in meth production and the sale of syringes. He emphasized the necessity for a control framework that could prevent younger individuals from accessing harmful paraphernalia.
The establishment of the Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau in June 2024 formed part of an overarching National Counter Narcotics Strategy aimed at mitigating drug supply and demand. However, recent revelations concerning allegations of corruption within the bureau highlight the importance of ensuring accountability as officials tackle increasingly sophisticated drug networks.
In an optimistic light, a rising cooperation among various entities, including law enforcement, NGOs, and private sectors, reflects Fiji’s unified commitment to creating a safer environment. Given this collaborative approach, there is hope for the restoration of public trust and the establishment of effective strategies to counter drug trafficking in the region.
This proactive stance illustrates a determined effort from multiple sectors to unite against the drug crisis, fostering a safer future built on integrity and commitment to law enforcement.
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