Lau Provincial Council chairman Ratu Meli Saubulinayau has issued a stark warning regarding the presence of hard drugs in the Lau Group, emphasizing that ignoring the issue will only exacerbate the crisis. He asserts the necessity of transitioning from a state of denial to proactive measures aimed at reducing drug trafficking and tightening control over their entry into the province.
Ratu Meli highlighted that many individuals involved in bringing drugs into Lau do not originate from the area, underscoring the critical need for more stringent monitoring and enhanced community awareness programs. He pointed out that, up to this point, drug-related incidents have been left primarily for police intervention. However, he stressed that a broader response is now imperative, especially with the involvement of the Paramount Chief in calling for action.
“The vanua must come into the picture,” Ratu Meli stated, advocating for communities to fully comprehend the drug problem and engage in efforts to eliminate it from the islands. He expressed serious concerns about the detrimental impacts of drugs on families and youth, insisting that enforcement measures alone cannot suffice in tackling the issue.
“We need to be serious about what we are trying to do; we shouldn’t just talk about it and do nothing,” he added. Ratu Meli further noted that while the province has been aware of the drug problem for several years, the progression towards meaningful solutions has been disappointingly slow.
The call for community involvement highlights a growing recognition that addressing the drug crisis requires collective action. Ratu Meli’s statements bring hope that with increased awareness and collaboration, the Lau Group can combat the drug issue effectively, fostering a healthier and more resilient community.
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