The National Counter Narcotics Strategy emerged in response to Fiji’s ongoing drug crisis.
Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua told The Lens@177 that while the national narcotics bureau would operate independently under his ministry, it would not duplicate the Fiji Police Force’s duties.
“Police is not only responsible for crimes based on narcotics,” he said.
“They’ve got other responsibilities as well. Given the prominence of the drug issue, we have established a dedicated department within the government, separate from the police, to address this.
“But police will also have their role as part of the policies. These two entities will work together. However, the Counter Narcotics Bureau will be the lead agency in managing drug-related issues.”
Mr. Tikoduadua was expected to have his first meeting with the 60 members of Fiji’s newly established Counter Narcotics Bureau in Suva yesterday.
He noted that while these personnel were recruited as part of the new unit, they had been working in this field for a long time.
He also mentioned that the strategy includes a civilian component, involving various parts of society and groups that work with government officials and committees outlined in the strategy.
“The accountable agency is the Counter Narcotics Bureau. It needs to ensure that when it implements the strategy with different government departments responsible for various tasks, those plans are included in their corporate or action plans.”