Ashish Prasad, a member of the Nabua Crime Prevention Committee and a retired educator, underscored the urgent need for police to respond promptly to tips concerning the drug trade. During discussions on the Counter Narcotics Bill in Suva, Prasad emphasized the importance of establishing a secure line to ensure the safety of informants.
Prasad pointed out that his committee actively engages with local law enforcement, holding regular meetings and monthly sessions with Nabua Police. To enhance community involvement, he proposed the elimination of caller ID for individuals providing information on suspected drug activities, as a measure to encourage more residents to come forward without fear of identification.
Drawing from personal experience, Prasad recounted an instance where he attempted to reach the police emergency number 919 on behalf of a local youth, only to receive no response. “This shouldn’t be the case,” he lamented, highlighting a gap in communication that needs to be addressed.
He also advocated for greater participation from community members and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the operations of the Counter Narcotics Bureau. Prasad stressed the necessity of having an independent committee inclusive of NGOs, suggesting that their front-line knowledge could greatly assist in tackling drug-related issues.
Furthermore, he called for a more responsive system for acting on tips, criticizing delays that can extend from days to months or even years. He proposed that the police establish a specific timeframe for responding to reports, emphasizing that a quicker response could significantly impact the efficacy of their operations.
Police Inspector James Lave acknowledged Prasad’s comments, stating that all feedback would be considered in the ongoing review of the law. He noted that the concerns regarding confidentiality for witnesses and informants are among the critical issues being deliberated within the proposed changes to the law.
The dialogue surrounding the Narcotics Bill is set to continue, with similar consultations planned across the country, fostering a collaborative approach to combating drug-related crimes. This initiative not only aims to strengthen community-police relations but also highlights a collective commitment toward creating a safer environment for all.