Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua urged the children of Ra to reject drug use as he concluded the anti-drug week celebrations in Rakiraki. He emphasized the importance of strengthening community policing as a key strategy in combating the drug problem.
“Effective drug prevention requires strong community engagement. By increasing police visibility and interaction through regular patrols and community liaison officers, we aim to build trust and cooperation,” Tikoduadua stated.
He highlighted that community policing initiatives are essential to understand and address specific concerns related to drug abuse in various areas, including semi-rural communities. “We believe in the power of community-led solutions. Through our community policing initiatives and partnerships with local organizations, we are working to boost resilience against drug use,” he added.
Tikoduadua stressed the importance of empowering youth with knowledge, skills, and resources, noting that they are not only the future but also the present agents of change who can lead the fight against drug abuse in their communities.
He emphasized that the fight against drug abuse is a collective responsibility. “By investing in prevention, empowering our communities, and fostering international cooperation, we can build a safer, healthier future for all,” he said.
Tikoduadua pointed to the comprehensive reset of the Fiji Police Force and the National Countering Illicit Narcotics Strategy as evidence of their dedication to this cause.