The ongoing battle against drugs is increasingly straining the capacity of the Fiji Police Force’s Forensic Chemistry Unit (FCU) laboratory. As authorities continue to seize a significant volume of illegal substances, the limited workforce and resources dedicated to testing and analysis within the unit pose serious challenges.
During a presentation at the 2024 Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Annual Conference, Miliana Werebauinona, the principal scientific officer of the unit, highlighted that nearly 3,000 drug cases have been submitted for analysis, yet there are only nine certified drug analysts available to handle these cases before they proceed to court.
Ms. Werebauinona, who made history as Fiji’s first drug analyst certified by the Institute for Environmental Scientific Research (IESR) in New Zealand in 2012, stressed the urgency for additional manpower and technical assistance to meet the growing demands. Last year, the unit analyzed 2,666 drug cases, and by Friday morning, 2,399 cases had already been logged—this number is projected to rise before year’s end.
Acknowledging the support from the government for laboratory equipment procurement, Ms. Werebauinona noted that the lab must adapt to evolving crime trends, which necessitate changes in operational capacity. However, navigating bureaucratic procedures within the Fiji Police Force can complicate timely enhancements to the lab’s capabilities.
A significant challenge faced by the unit is the need for analysts to present their findings in various court locations, which disrupts the lab’s daily operations. Ms. Werebauinona advocated for a more decentralized model, proposing at least three drug analysts per division to facilitate more efficient service delivery. Currently, the lab has one station in Labasa to serve the Northern Division and another in Lautoka for the Western Division. They also provide drug analysis for other Pacific Islands, including Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Nauru, enhancing regional cooperation in combating drug-related issues.
Despite the obstacles, Ms. Werebauinona remains committed to advancing the unit’s effectiveness in tackling illicit drugs. This dedication reflects an ongoing effort to bolster Fiji’s drug response strategies, ensuring they remain robust and well-equipped to protect the community.
This situation underscores the importance of supporting law enforcement agencies with adequate resources and personnel, as their work is crucial in maintaining safety and order in society. As stakeholders recognize the challenges faced by the FCU, there is hope for collaborative efforts to strengthen their capabilities in the fight against drug-related crimes.
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