The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has raised concerns over a troubling trend involving the smuggling of illegal drugs into cemeteries. This issue was highlighted by Deputy Commissioner Auta Moceisuva during a discussion with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights.
In response to this alarming situation, the FCS is ramping up security measures, implementing daily patrols and nighttime checks, as well as deploying sniffer dogs to ensure the safety of these hallowed grounds. Moceisuva emphasized the need to differentiate between those visiting for genuine mourning and those using the visits as a cover for illegal activities. He noted, “We constantly monitor the people who visit cemeteries, as we can identify those who are genuinely there to pay their respects.”
As part of enhancing security, the FCS has placed restrictions on the practice of excessively wrapping caskets with mats. This adjustment not only reduces costs but also deters potential misuse of funeral services. The scrutiny surrounding cemetery visits underscores the importance of vigilance, with officers closely examining visitors for any concealed contraband.
Moceisuva also addressed the outdated record-keeping system for cemeteries, much of which is manual and some dating back to the late 1800s. Many records were lost during the riots of 1979-1980, highlighting an urgent need for a digitization initiative. This proposal is reflected in the upcoming Burial and Cremation Amendment Bill 2025, which seeks to improve management practices and legal protections to safeguard against the abuse of cemetery spaces.
Committee member Faiyaz Koya stressed the significance of maintaining accurate, centralized records for families looking to trace burial plots while preserving the dignity of cemetery areas. The push for digitization coincides with broader efforts to enhance safety and integrity within cemetery management.
The FCS acknowledges that community cooperation is crucial in tackling the issue of illicit activities within these spaces. By adhering to approved practices and reporting suspicious actions, the public can contribute to upholding the sanctity of cemeteries.
The ongoing enhancements to cemetery management highlight a dedication to protecting these revered sites and a commitment to resolving the associated challenges of law enforcement and public safety. With the support of the community and proactive measures, there is optimism for maintaining the respect and integrity of burial grounds throughout Fiji.