During a meeting of the Macuata Provincial Council in Sasa Village, Sireli Leweniqila, a representative from Udu district, emphasized the necessity for law enforcement to conduct a thorough evaluation of areas affected by drug-related cases. As a former chairperson of the council and an active Fijian politician, Leweniqila pointed out that while some villages and settlements have remained untouched by drug issues, the proximity to urban centers makes others more vulnerable.
He underscored the importance of assessing the situation in various communities, especially those near towns, where access to drug information is more prevalent. In his view, this can lead both to victimization and the rise of offenders.
Leweniqila advocated for collaboration between law enforcement and traditional leaders to tackle the drug problem, noting that approaches may need to be tailored to the unique circumstances of each village. He stressed that individuals convicted of drug possession, consumption, or trafficking should face significant penalties to deter future involvement.
He expressed concern over the exposure of youth to drugs when they migrate to cities for work or study, suggesting that these individuals sometimes make regrettable decisions in the pursuit of quick financial gain. Highlighting methamphetamine as a global issue that also impacts Fiji, he called for enhanced border security, both on land and at sea, to protect future generations.
In concluding remarks, he urged the government and law enforcement to enforce stricter regulations, reinforcing that the implications of drug-related crimes are serious and far from the friendly image Fiji is known for.
This call to action illustrates a proactive approach to a growing concern within the community, aiming to safeguard the well-being of both current and future citizens of Fiji. With collaboration and vigilance, there is hope for mitigating the impact of drug-related issues in the region.
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