The Fiji Police Force has expressed serious concerns regarding the production of methamphetamine in residential areas. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, has urged the public to help pinpoint locations where this drug is being manufactured.
“Our sources inform us that there is an increase in individuals producing their own methamphetamine at home,” stated ACP Driu. He noted that this trend poses significant dangers, as many of these individuals lack the expertise to safely handle the hazardous chemicals involved, putting the public at risk of consuming contaminated substances.
As law enforcement intensifies its efforts against illegal drugs, ACP Driu emphasized that addressing home meth production is critical to combating the overall drug problem.
Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free Fiji, claimed that meth production in Fiji has been occurring since 2019. Ms. Volatabu pointed out that during their research, they encountered stories of meth production in coastal communities and squatter settlements, even mentioning that individuals have been injured while attempting to make the drug at home due to unsafe practices.
She highlighted the accessibility of instructional videos on platforms like YouTube, which teach users how to create meth. Additionally, the materials needed for production are readily available in local shops, making it easy for anyone to obtain the necessary ingredients.
In response to these concerns, the police are calling for public assistance to identify meth producers. ACP Driu also noted ongoing drug raids in remote islands, where marijuana cultivation is on the rise. While there have been no discoveries of meth in these areas, the police are maintaining vigilance.
Operations are not limited to the main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, as efforts also extend to maritime islands. Police conduct awareness campaigns and have officers stationed in areas like Moala and Vanuabalavu, Lau.
On the mainland, the police have reported a 37 percent increase in drug raids compared to the previous year. ACP Driu reassured the public that they are effectively receiving information about drug hotspots, leading to significant arrests and operations. He anticipates a potential decrease in the number of raids due to rising prices of meth.