Fiji is ramping up efforts to combat the increasing drug threat by integrating police enforcement with proactive community measures. Ioane Naivalurua, the Minister for Policing and Communication, announced that the Counter-Narcotics Bureau (CNB) has been undergoing a retraining process alongside police forces since last year, following a review that pointed to shortcomings in its effectiveness.
Naivalurua highlighted that the establishment of a dedicated counter-narcotics unit was recognized as crucial back in 2011, during his earlier tenure as Commissioner of Police, but necessary actions were delayed then. He expressed regret that had decisive measures been taken at that time, the current drug situation might have been mitigated.
The nation’s dual-pronged strategy against drug use involves what officials have termed the “black gloves” and “white gloves” approach. The “black gloves” component focuses on police-driven enforcement activities, which encompass border control, interdiction efforts, and legal prosecution. Conversely, the “white gloves” approach aims at engaging communities through preventive measures and initiatives to raise awareness, thereby protecting children and future generations.
Naivalurua also emphasized the need to revisit educational curricula to ensure that they comprehensively address drug-related issues. He pointed out that the ongoing retraining and review of the CNB are aligned with the objectives laid out in Fiji’s 2023–2028 narcotics strategy, which seeks to significantly reduce drug use and the myriad challenges associated with it.
“This is a rebuilding process to ensure that when this unit is fully operational, it will have a lasting impact,” Naivalurua asserted, reflecting the government’s commitment to effectively and sustainably address drug-related challenges.
As Fiji implements these strategies, there is optimism that a safer environment for future generations can be established, blending diligent law enforcement with proactive community involvement in the battle against drugs.