With a growing number of drug-related incidents reported across the nation, representatives from the islands are advocating for the deployment of police officers at rural wharves to oversee and deter the trafficking of illegal substances. This pressing matter was highlighted by a representative from the Levuka district on Ovalau Island during discussions for the National Rural Development Plan.
Levuka District Officer Taniela Tamani pointed out that many villages are suffering due to insufficient oversight, which has led to a surge in drug transportation between the islands. Islanders are calling for enhanced police presence at wharves to better manage and track the movement of goods arriving by boat.
“Many boats arrive in Ovalau every day, operating twice daily. Despite the existing district rules that prohibit eating, drinking, and drug possession, we are struggling to enforce these regulations and are seeking support to tackle this issue,” Tamani remarked. This concern has been raised in prior provincial meetings, emphasizing an ongoing dialogue about community safety.
The Minister for iTaukei Affairs is also advocating for the development plan to encompass community guidelines, ensuring it is adaptable and reflective of local practices. This initiative prioritizes the values that are important in rural and maritime communities, including collective decision-making and shared accountability. By centering community voices, the policy aims to be grounded in the actual experiences of the residents rather than based on assumptions.
The Levuka representative is encouraging community members to actively engage in the development plan, reinforce village-level initiatives, monitor the movements of individuals closely, and remain vigilant against the challenges posed by drug trafficking. This collaborative effort promises to strengthen the islands’ defenses against illegal substances while fostering a sense of shared responsibility among residents.
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