Law enforcement officials are urged to conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify regions experiencing drug-related issues, according to Sireli Leweniqila, a representative from Udu district. Speaking at the Macuata Provincial Council meeting held in Sasa Village, near Labasa Town, he emphasized the need for targeted assessments.
Mr. Leweniqila, who previously chaired the Macuata Provincial Council and serves as a Fijian politician, pointed out that certain villages and settlements remain largely unaffected by drug influences. He acknowledged, however, that communities located near urban centers tend to have greater exposure to drug-related information, often placing them in vulnerable positions as both victims and offenders.
He proposed that after this assessment, law enforcement should collaborate with local traditional leaders to tackle the drug problem in a manner tailored to the unique circumstances of each village. Additionally, he advocated for strict consequences for individuals convicted of drug offenses—whether possession, use, or trafficking—to deter further involvement in these activities.
Mr. Leweniqila cautioned that rural youth moving to urban areas for work or education may face increased risks of drug exposure and poor decision-making in their quest for quick financial gain. He flagged the global issue of methamphetamine as a pressing concern, maintaining that while Fiji may be a small nation, it is not immune to such challenges.
He concluded with a call to enhance border protection measures—both on land and at sea—to safeguard future generations. Reiterating Fiji’s reputation as the “Friendly Islands,” he stressed the importance of implementing stricter laws to convey that the repercussions of drug offenses are serious and consequential.
This response to drug-related issues signifies an important step towards community awareness and action. By mobilizing local leadership and law enforcement, there’s hope for building resilience against drug culture in vulnerable areas. The focus on collaboration highlights a community-driven approach to prevent drug misuse and its consequences in Fiji.
Summary: Sireli Leweniqila, a member of the Macuata Provincial Council, has called for thorough assessments by law enforcement to identify regions with drug-related issues. He stresses the importance of partnering with traditional leaders to tailor responses and enforce strict penalties for drug offenses, emphasizing the need for enhanced border control to protect future generations.
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