The Fiji Police Force, while facing challenges from a minority of corrupt officers, maintains that the majority of its personnel are dedicated to upholding the law and integrity of the institution. Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew emphasized this commitment, stating that there is no room for corruption within the force, which has seen 28 officers charged over the past three years for offenses related to the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.
In other news, a recent court ruling in Germany lifted long-standing restrictions on kava, but experts warn that market entry for this commodity may still be complex. Dr. Mathias Schmidt, a scientist and kava researcher, cautioned about the potential for increased scrutiny from Germany’s food and drug regulator, BfArM, which has frequently changed its requirements over the years.
Additionally, the “Kaila!” edition in the Fiji Times weekly publication offers insights into how sports can provide constructive alternatives for youth, specifically highlighting cricket. Cricket Fiji chairman Meli Saubulinayau noted the importance of sports in diverting young people from illicit drug use during a cricket tournament held at Albert Park in Suva.
On the rugby front, national coach Mick Byrne shared his perspectives on the growth of Fiji rugby in light of recent competitions, calling for patience and ongoing development to nurture promising talent. The Deans Trophy finals drew large crowds, showcasing not just the talent but also fostering community pride, as evidenced by the performance of Lami High School, which defied expectations to clinch the Under-19 title.
As Fiji confronts significant challenges such as drug abuse and rising HIV cases, sports are increasingly seen as a potential avenue for fostering community engagement and providing young people with productive opportunities. The call to leverage sports for societal benefit continues, with hopes that community support can help bridge gaps and cultivate the next generation of athletes.