Law enforcement agencies are urged to conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify areas most affected by drug-related cases, according to Sireli Leweniqila, a representative from Udu district who spoke at the Macuata Provincial Council meeting in Sasa Village, near Labasa Town.
Mr. Leweniqila, a former chairperson of the Macuata Provincial Council and a notable Fijian politician, highlighted that certain villages and settlements have remained untouched by drugs. He mentioned that communities closer to urban areas tend to have greater exposure to drug-related issues, which can turn individuals into either victims or offenders.
He emphasized the importance of conducting thorough assessments in these regions, after which law enforcement should engage with local traditional leaders to develop tailored strategies for each location. This approach recognizes that the drug problem can vary significantly from one village to another.
Mr. Leweniqila also advocated for stricter penalties for individuals convicted of drug possession, use, or trafficking, urging that serious consequences would deter others from engaging in similar behaviors. He pointed out the particular vulnerability of young people who move to urban areas for education or work, stating that they often encounter drugs and may make poor decisions in the pursuit of quick financial gains.
Highlighting the global nature of the drug crisis, he remarked that even though Fiji is a smaller nation, it faces significant challenges regarding substances like methamphetamine. He called for increased vigilance in border control, both at sea and on land, to protect future generations from the negative impacts of drug availability.
In closing, Mr. Leweniqila reminded attendees that while Fiji is known as the “Friendly Islands,” it is essential for the government and law enforcement to adopt stringent laws to clearly communicate that drug offenses come with serious repercussions.
The call for a focused assessment and community-based engagement provides a hopeful pathway for tackling drug-related issues, emphasizing the role of leadership and collaboration in finding effective solutions.
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