Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua acknowledges the “dangerous people” the Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau encounters and states that the possibility of arming the bureau will be carefully considered in the future.
In an interview with The Fiji Times’ online news portal The Lens@177, Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized their priority is ensuring the bureau is well-prepared.
“Whether it’s information gathering, raiding, tactical operations, or potentially arming them, these are decisions we will determine in the future,” he said.
Mr. Tikoduadua reiterated the necessity of equipping and preparing the bureau to handle dangerous individuals effectively.
Moreover, he highlighted the need to re-examine the laws enabling the bureau to perform its duties efficiently. “This is a long-term issue, not something that can be solved instantly. I have only two years left in my term. The next person who takes over must have a set of adaptable laws to address the evolving threats,” he explained.
He also noted the importance of properly resourcing the bureau and mentioned that they are in the process of securing an interim office. Mr. Tikoduadua indicated that they had identified a suitable location and stressed the necessity of providing a dedicated and well-equipped workspace within the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Establishing the bureau as a part of a government department is crucial, according to Mr. Tikoduadua, ensuring that it functions as a dedicated authority while being capable and well-equipped.