The increasing battle against drug trafficking is placing significant pressure on Fiji Police’s Forensic Chemistry Unit (FCU) laboratory. As law enforcement continues to successfully confiscate drugs, the FCU is struggling to keep up with the volume of cases being processed.
During a recent presentation at the 2024 Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Annual Conference, Miliana Werebauinona, the unit’s principal scientific officer and Fiji’s first certified drug analyst, highlighted the critical workload facing the unit. With nearly 3,000 drug cases projected for this year alone, the unit is operating with only nine certified scientific drug analysts responsible for analyzing these cases before they may proceed to court.
The situation is urgent, as the number of cases continues to rise, with the unit analyzing 2,666 cases last year and already receiving 2,399 cases by mid-year. Werebauinona emphasized the need for additional manpower and technical support to maintain efficiency as drug trends evolve. While the unit benefits from governmental support for lab equipment procurement, Werebauinona noted that more analysts are necessary to meet growing demands. Ideally, she suggested having three analysts per division and opening more labs to better distribute services.
Currently, facilities are stationed in Labasa for the Northern Division and Lautoka for the Western Division, and the unit also assists other Pacific Islands, such as Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Nauru, by providing drug analysis services. Werebauinona stated that although there are challenges, including the logistical issues of analysts needing to attend multiple court cases simultaneously, the unit remains committed to its mission against illicit drugs.
This situation highlights an urgent need for bolstering forensic capabilities within Fiji’s law enforcement as they combat the escalating drug crisis. With more resources and support, the FCU could significantly enhance its efficiency and effectiveness, ultimately contributing to a safer community.
Overall, while the current challenges may seem daunting, they also present an opportunity for growth and improvement within the Fiji Police Force. With a collective effort and strategic investment in personnel and infrastructure, Fiji can strengthen its defenses against drug trafficking and improve its overall public safety landscape.
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