The Fiji Police Force, in collaboration with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC), has inaugurated Fiji’s inaugural wastewater drug monitoring program. This pilot initiative draws inspiration from Australia’s established system designed to track drug consumption trends effectively.
Developed in partnership with The University of Queensland and the University of the South Pacific, the program will collect and analyze samples from multiple locations throughout Fiji, with testing scheduled every three months. This systematic approach aims to deliver an unprecedented nationwide analysis of drug use and identify emerging threats.
The initiative will monitor a total of 12 substances, both licit and illicit, including methylamphetamine, amphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, MDA, heroin, fentanyl, ketamine, oxycodone, cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine. By doing so, the program seeks to produce the most comprehensive picture of drug usage patterns in Fiji to date.
The ACIC has emphasized that wastewater monitoring has played a crucial role in enhancing Australia’s drug-intelligence capabilities. Fiji’s adoption of this method signifies a significant advancement in regional cooperation regarding drug-related issues.
Both the Fiji Police Force and the ACIC view this program as a testament to their collective dedication to ensuring community safety, promoting public health, and employing innovative, science-based strategies to combat drug threats in the Pacific region. This initiative not only supports local health efforts but also places Fiji as a proactive participant in addressing drug-related challenges in the region.