Fiji Police are reported to have conducted a significant drug bust in Nadi this week, seizing white substances alleged to be methamphetamine. Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew confirmed the operation to The Fiji Times. Although the exact quantity seized has not been disclosed, multiple sources indicated that more than 15 cartons containing what is believed to be methamphetamine were confiscated at a courier company office in Nadi. Further information will be provided once investigations are completed.
This year, police have made several drug busts, many involving methamphetamine. The situation raises questions about how such activities have gone unnoticed for so long and whose responsibility it was to monitor drug-related developments. The issue of hard drugs, particularly methamphetamine, remains a significant challenge.
Former Police Chief of Operations ACP Rusiate Tudravu had warned in 2018 about methamphetamine becoming a major security issue if not controlled. Despite this warning, the drug appears to be increasingly prevalent. Methamphetamine is known for being cheap, easy to make, and highly addictive, with production often involving illicit transactions.
Addressing the proliferation of hard drugs requires community engagement, collaboration with educators and policymakers, and proper support for law enforcement. There is an urgent need for proper rehabilitation centers in Fiji, equipped to handle addiction treatment complexities. Additionally, awareness campaigns and reliable data on addiction are crucial for effectively tackling the issue.
The latest drug bust serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges. It’s essential to focus on prevention, enforcement, treatment, and rehabilitation to combat the hard drug problem comprehensively.