The Fiji Police Force has recognized a specific demographic in its effort to combat drug-related issues in the country. According to the Force’s manager of proactive operations, ASP Reshmi Singh, from January to July of this year, they saw a significant number of individuals charged with drug-related offenses, totaling 718 people aged between 18 to 35. In addition, there were 20 juveniles and 396 individuals from the 36-55 age bracket who faced similar charges.
ASP Singh noted that this younger demographic has been largely absent from community engagement initiatives and places of worship, a trend that poses a challenge for law enforcement. She remarked, “Unfortunately, this group is found in nightclubs but is missing from community gatherings and places of worship. Our challenge lies in finding ways to engage them.”
Families often seek counseling or awareness programs for their children, but rebellious behavior or family conflict can hinder progress. ASP Singh emphasized the importance of proper upbringing, arguing that children who are nurtured effectively are less likely to fall in with the wrong crowd. “This group finds it very difficult to listen to anyone, including their parents,” she stated.
Identifying this demographic is crucial for developing strategies that promote better communication and build trust between young adults and their families, as well as youth and community leaders. Although the police face significant challenges in tackling drug issues among young adults, understanding the complexities of their lives is vital for moving forward.
The absence of this age group from community initiatives makes it harder to reach them, underscoring the need for enhanced communication and community engagement. By fostering supportive environments, there is hope for breaking the cycle of drug use and empowering young people.
Addressing these issues requires involvement from all segments of society. The fight against drug-related problems will persist unless we prioritize our efforts in tackling them.