The ‘gateway’ to illicit drugs for young people often begins with yaqona, cigarettes, suki, alcohol, and glue, according to Inspector Vidya Pillay, Divisional Crime Prevention North coordinator.
Inspector Pillay explained that children do not typically engage in hard drugs immediately but start by experimenting with substances like cigarettes, kava, and glue. “With this, they gain the confidence to try something else,” the senior police officer stated.
These gateways should not be overlooked by parents and guardians, he emphasized. “We must continuously talk about and create awareness to reduce harm to our children,” Inspector Pillay said. He urged parents and guardians to try their best to shield their children from external influences.
“This can only be effectively done if you are on your guard at all times. You need to talk to your children, counsel them, and prioritize their needs above social and religious obligations,” he added.
Inspector Pillay warned that if parents and guardians allowed their children to seek counsel elsewhere, it could mean they have failed in their duty of guarding the gateway to illicit drugs. “Let’s do better for our children and leave behind a Fiji in which they are able to prosper,” he said, advising children to focus on their future and education and avoid drug use due to the high cost they would pay.
He also encouraged children to always surround themselves with positive people.