A senior official from the Fiji Corrections Service has labeled the Nakasi area as a “red zone” characterized by high rates of drug use and crime. Assistant Commissioner Administration/Strategic Management Akuila Namakadre encouraged students in the area to be smart, strong, and educated to navigate these challenges.
Namakadre made these remarks during St John Bosco Primary School’s commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT) on Friday. He emphasized to the students the importance of understanding their environment, describing the “red zone” as an area where drug-related activities and crime are prevalent.
“It is very important for children here at St John Bosco to understand that you are in the middle of the red zone where drug-related activities and crime go hand in hand,” he said. He stressed that living or going to school in such an area requires resilience and education.
Namakadre pointed out that many young offenders in the prison system come from backgrounds with absent parents, broken families, or lack significant parental figures.
“It only takes one cigarette, one drink, or one experience with drugs to get you hooked. Say no to drugs,” he urged.
He also raised concerns about used syringes being found on school grounds and roadsides, advising students to avoid these materials. “If you see them, do not pick them up and start playing with them as they may be infected,” he warned. He also highlighted the correlation between the increased use of needles for drug use and the rise in HIV cases.