The Fiji Police Force is urging the public to come forward with any information on unreported criminal activities. Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, the Divisional Police Commander for the North, made this appeal following reports from a Labasa resident who expressed concerns about the Labasa Market being a hub for drug trafficking.
The anonymous informant mentioned observing the market over the past three months and noted an increase in drug dealers operating there. He stated that while some known drug peddlers are recognized by both the community and law enforcement, there are instances where police officers do not take action to address the issue.
According to the whistleblower, he contacted the Labasa Market Police Post on September 27 to report the ongoing drug activities and urged for a more visible police presence. However, he claimed that the officer on duty stated they were unaware of such activities.
The informant specified that these drug peddlers are primarily located near the market entrance by the bus terminal. He also pointed out that the Labasa Town Council has installed multiple CCTV cameras in the area, and he alleged that he has evidence of some individuals attempting to obstruct these cameras by placing chewing gum on their recording devices.
He mentioned having taken screenshots of a person attempting to tamper with the CCTV equipment.
Waisea Makulau, vice-president of the Labasa Vendor and Farmer’s Association, has advised vendors to steer clear of involvement in the illegal drug trade. Council special administrator Paul Jaduram acknowledged that the sale of illicit drugs within the market is a persistent problem for the council. He emphasized the need for police officers to approach their duties with impartiality and diligence and urged vendors to focus on increasing their legitimate produce to enhance profits rather than resorting to illegal activities.
SSP Baledrokadroka expressed his willingness to engage with the whistleblower regarding their claims and evidence to facilitate targeted police operations. He confirmed that police will continue to conduct raids in Labasa and throughout other regions of Vanua Levu.