There are concerns about a shortfall in Fiji’s national drug strategy due to a lack of specific resources and attention directed towards the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS). While the FCS appreciates government attempts at drug control, underscored by the allocation of $2 million in the 2024-2025 national budget for the creation of a Narcotics Bureau, FCS Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa noted that the organization had been overlooked in the National Drug Strategy.
The FCS is currently struggling due to the increasing number of drug offenders, an issue that is forecasted to surge due to sharper law enforcement tactics. The FCS fears that it is inadequately equipped to handle the projected upswing in convictions as a result of the new drug strategy and the inception of the National Narcotic Bureau, in the absence of specialized drug rehabilitation programs.
“While we applaud the Government’s determination to firmly address the drug issue, a successful drug strategy requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing detection, prosecution, rehabilitation, and reintegration of offenders,” said Nakarawa, warning that existing facilities are at their limits and that without proper rehabilitation programs, a circle of reoffending could be perpetuated.
The agency has proposed several considerations for the government, including expanding correctional facilities, implementing rehabilitation programs, providing more training and resources for correctional staff, and partnering with health services for comprehensive offender care. According to Nakarawa, investing in these areas is crucial to assist convicted drug offenders in overcoming addiction and successfully reintegrating into society. Despite the challenges, Nakarawa affirmed that the FCS remains committed to its mandate of reforming offenders and maintaining public safety.