The Fiji Police Force has reported a total of 534 cases of yaqona plant thefts on Taveuni Island between October 2019 and October 2023. Prime Minister and Minister for Police, Sitiveni Rabuka, addressed this issue in Parliament following a question from Group of Nine (G9) Leader, Ioane Naivalurua, regarding the rise in thefts of this valuable cultural plant.
Mr. Rabuka acknowledged the difficulties in explaining the increase in these thefts, particularly noting a spike during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2019 to 2020. He shared recent statistics showing a pattern of fluctuating theft cases each year, with a marked increase from 2020 to 2021 but a decline in subsequent years until a resurgence in 2024, with 82 cases reported from January to October.
The Prime Minister emphasized the joint efforts of the police, the Methodist Church, and other community organizations in combating these thefts. He pointed out that there is currently no regulation governing the sale and purchase of green yaqona plants, which could be contributing to these thefts. To address this issue, the Fiji Police Force is proposing that all yaqona business license holders include regulations for buying and selling green yaqona in their operational criteria.
This proactive approach emphasizes the commitment of local authorities to address the theft issue within the community and highlights the importance of collaboration between different sectors in preserving and protecting cultural heritage, particularly in relation to yaqona, which holds significant cultural value in Fiji.
In summary, while thefts of yaqona plants are concerning, the ongoing discussions and community cooperation reflect a positive move towards regulation and preventive measures to protect this vital resource.
Leave a comment