Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is calling on school communities and parents to collaborate with the Government to combat drug issues. His appeal comes in light of concerning findings of empty syringes during the cleanup following the Miss Hibiscus Festival.
While addressing attendees at the Ratu Kadavulevu School’s centenary celebration at Albert Park in Suva yesterday, Mr. Rabuka expressed his disappointment over negative feedback received from his team regarding the festival’s aftermath. He recounted a specific instance from a Communion Service at Wesley Church, where he instructed his staff to follow up with city cleaners, resulting in a photo of discarded items, including a syringe.
Mr. Rabuka emphasized the importance of community unity in addressing the drug crisis, particularly its impact on the youth. He stated that the initiative must begin with parents, followed by schools, religious groups, and the broader community.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu mentioned that while there were no arrests made during the festival, several took place in the Suva area subsequently. He noted that although used syringes were discovered in various locations around Suva, the police could not charge individuals for possessing empty syringes, as current laws do not classify it as an offense.
ACP Driu highlighted that police efforts are concentrated on tackling liquor-related crimes, theft, and drug-related issues, emphasizing that the festival wasn’t the only focus for their operations; the safety of all of Suva was a priority.