The Fiji Police Force has launched the country’s first wastewater drug monitoring program in partnership with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC). This pilot initiative draws inspiration from an existing framework used in Australia aimed at effectively tracking drug consumption trends.
In collaboration with The University of Queensland and the University of the South Pacific, the program will gather and analyze wastewater samples from various locations across Fiji, with testing occurring every three months. This thorough approach is expected to provide an unprecedented nationwide overview of drug use and help pinpoint emerging threats.
The initiative will focus on analyzing a total of 12 substances, both legal and illegal, including methylamphetamine, amphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, MDA, heroin, fentanyl, ketamine, oxycodone, cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine. The information collected is anticipated to create the most comprehensive understanding of drug usage patterns in Fiji to date.
The ACIC has highlighted the significant impact that wastewater monitoring has had on improving drug-intelligence capabilities in Australia. The implementation of this method in Fiji marks a notable advancement in regional collaboration on drug-related matters.
Both the Fiji Police Force and the ACIC regard this program as a strong demonstration of their shared commitment to enhancing community safety, promoting public health, and utilizing innovative, science-backed strategies to tackle drug threats in the Pacific. This initiative not only bolsters local health endeavors but also positions Fiji as a proactive player in addressing regional drug-related challenges. The hope is that this comprehensive monitoring will lead to more effective drug prevention strategies and ultimately improve public health outcomes in Fiji.