The Fiji Police Force has logged a total of 6,659 drug-related incidents over the past five years, with last year witnessing the peak at 1,615 cases. This data was revealed by Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci during the kickoff of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Annual Conference in Sigatoka.
Raikaci noted that a slight drop of 31% in drug cases in 2021 can be attributed to the constraints imposed by COVID-19, but he emphasized that this should not be interpreted as a real decline in drug engagement within the community. He reassured that the police are relentless in their mission, executing community outreach and ongoing operations that lead to arrests and prosecutions, especially during the festive season.
“Our efforts include reaching out to schools, churches, and community gatherings as part of our ongoing festive season operations,” stated Raikaci.
He also commended the government’s dedication to combatting drug issues, particularly with the establishment of a new Narcotics Bureau. Furthermore, he called upon legal professionals to weigh the government’s anti-drug initiatives against the rights of individuals implicated in drug offenses, asking them to reflect on their responsibilities as they fulfill their roles in the judiciary.
In closing, the DPP Conference, which highlights critical discussions on public safety and legal matters, is set to conclude today.
This article sheds light on the ongoing challenges the Fiji Police Force faces in addressing drug-related offenses, but it also emphasizes the proactive measures being taken within the community and the support from the government. The establishment of the Narcotics Bureau and active engagement strategies inspire hope that collaborative efforts will lead to a safer future for Fiji.
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