In response to the escalating drug crisis in Fiji and the ongoing discussions to combat it, Reverend Hemraj Mangal has taken proactive measures by establishing the Adult & Teen Challenge rehabilitation center. This center, located in Lololo, Lautoka, offers a unique 16 to 20-week program that is grounded in biblical teachings and abstains from using medication to help individuals overcome addiction. The four-part approach focuses on recovery, rehabilitation, empowerment, and restoration, providing a comprehensive pathway for addicts seeking to regain control of their lives.
In recent discussions, leaders of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) have also called for alterations to the 2013 Constitution, particularly regarding the process for selecting Fiji’s President. This highlights a growing interest in reform within the country’s governance structure.
In the business sector, preliminary plans have emerged from shareholders of Pacific Cement Ltd, which seeks to construct a new, environmentally friendly factory to replace their 62-year-old facility in Lami. The major shareholder, Fijian Holdings Ltd, is prioritizing sustainable development in this endeavor.
Moreover, the recent acknowledgment of Fiji as a key transit point in international drug trafficking has raised significant alarm. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, confirmed that a recent seizure of cocaine in Spain, labeled “Fiji,” exemplifies the country’s troubling role as a transit hub for drug cartels. The intercepted shipment, hiding two billion dollars worth of cocaine among bananas from Ecuador, emphasizes the urgency of this issue.
Driu applauded the cooperative efforts between international law enforcement agencies, including counterparts from Australia and the U.S., which are essential in tackling the threat of narcotics. As Fiji continues to enhance its vigilance and intelligence-sharing practices, it remains committed to securing its borders against the influx of drugs.
While concerns regarding past oversights and the sudden emergence of this issue linger, there is hope that the current administration’s dedication to addressing the drug trafficking challenge will lead to meaningful change. The involvement of community leaders, such as Reverend Mangal, alongside government initiatives and public awareness, may pave the way toward a safer and healthier Fiji.
This situation serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing challenges within society, urging everyone to stay vigilant and engaged in the fight against drugs while fostering community support systems that aim to help those struggling with addiction.
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