Marijuana use is often misconceived as a harmless substance, but Fiji Police Inspector Isaia Donu warns that it can lead to the use of more dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine and cocaine. Speaking at the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking event in Labasa, Mr. Donu emphasized the prevalent yet underestimated risks of marijuana in Fiji, highlighting the existence of three common types of the drug in the country.
Donu explained, “If someone is using marijuana, it will lead them to methamphetamine and then to cocaine,” stressing the serious implications for mental health. He urged the public to understand that marijuana contains chemicals that can severely impact mental well-being, further undermining life prospects including education and career opportunities.
The inspector’s address aligns with ongoing concerns regarding a rise in methamphetamine trafficking in liquid form and the use of needles, complicating detection efforts for law enforcement. He mentioned that there continues to be a high volume of marijuana cases, reinforcing the need for urgent community engagement to deter drug use, particularly among youth.
The recent data corroborates the seriousness of the drug issue in Fiji, with nearly 2,100 marijuana-related cases reported, vastly outnumbering methamphetamine incidents, which totaled about 343. Communities are witnessing alarming trends in drug use, particularly among young adults aged 18 to 35. As highlighted by various authorities, including Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, early intervention through open discussions within families is vital to prevent substance use.
This sentiment mirrors findings from previous statements on the drug crisis, which noted that many young users begin with marijuana before transitioning to harder drugs, often due to peer pressure and the lack of accessible resources for education on drug risks. Advocates call for stronger community support to foster healthy environments for children and improve awareness about the dangers of drug use.
As the call for family involvement grows, the hope remains that addressing these issues collectively can lead to a healthier and more informed future generation, ultimately combatting the drug crisis gripping Fiji.
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