The Fiji Police Force has expressed concerns regarding the rise of methamphetamine production in residential areas. Assistant Commissioner of Police operations (ACP) Livai Driu has urged the community to report locations where these drugs are being produced.
ACP Driu noted, “Our people on the ground have informed us that individuals are starting to manufacture methamphetamine at home,” highlighting the dangers posed by those who may lack expertise in handling potentially hazardous chemicals, which could pose risks to the public. He emphasized that targeting this issue is essential in the ongoing battle against illegal substances.
In related claims, Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free Fiji, stated that local meth production has been occurring since 2019. She shared insights from research that included discussions with coastal communities, the Fiji Fire Authority, and the Fiji Police Force, indicating that home production of meth was already prevalent in squatter settlements during that time.
Volatabu further explained, “There are instructional videos on YouTube that teach individuals how to produce these drugs step by step. We have seen cases of people suffering severe burns while attempting to make meth. Nowadays, the materials required for these processes are easily accessible in stores, allowing anyone to purchase the necessary ingredients at hardware shops or supermarkets.”
The police are encouraging public assistance in identifying these manufacturers. ACP Driu also mentioned the continuation of drug raids and operations targeting marijuana cultivation in remote islands, stating that while no white substances have been discovered in these areas, green drugs are being encountered.
He reiterated that drug operations are active across all five divisions of Fiji, including maritime islands, not just Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Operations in these regions are complemented by awareness programs, with police stationed on the islands of Moala and Vanuabalavu.
On the mainland, police have reported a 37 percent increase in drug raids compared to the previous year. ACP Driu indicated that while the situation is being managed effectively, with ongoing tip-offs regarding drug locations, the number of operations may decline in the near future due to rising costs of white substances.