Police say that 641 drug-related offences have been recorded during the first four months of 2024.
The month of February recorded the highest number of cases with 189, followed by January with 169, March with 160, and 123 in April.
The Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew said of the 641 cases, 505 were associated with marijuana while 136 were for methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
The prevalent drug offences were for Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs recording 594 cases during the four-month reporting period, 44 for unlawful cultivation of illicit drugs, two cases of unlawful importation and exportation, and one case of unlawful transfer and supply of illicit drugs.
The Acting COMPOL said concerted efforts in the war on drugs are reflected in the number of cases recorded in all five policing districts.
“The Western Division recorded 271 cases, 151 in the North, 128 in the Southern Division, 58 in the Eastern Division and 33 in the Central Division.”
“We are sharing more detailed statistics so that people are aware of what is happening in their communities and assist law enforcement with the sharing of information.”
In the Southern Division, Lami, Valelevu, Nasinu, Nabua, Samabula, Raiwaqa, Navua, and Kadavu recorded cases.
In the Western Division, Lautoka, Nadi, Namaka, Sigatoka, Ba, Vatukoula, Rakiraki, Nalawa, Sabeto, Tavua, Keiyasi, and border recorded cases.
In the Eastern Division, cases were reported in Nausori, Nakasi, Korovou, Levuka, and Vunidawa.
In the Northern Division, cases were recorded in Savusavu, Labasa, Tukavesi, Taveuni, Nabouwalu, and Seaqaqa, while in the Central Division cases were mostly in the greater Suva area.
The Acting Commissioner said the cases are also reflective of policing efforts in detecting the cases and charging those involved.
He added, of concern, are repeat offenders, and through community policing efforts Police are working with stakeholders to break the vicious cycle.
The Acting Commissioner is calling for more collaboration to address the growing number of young people involved.
“During the four-month reporting period, 14 of those charged were juveniles, 397 aged between 18 to 35 years, a concerning figure, noting that these are considered to be our future leaders.”
The Acting Commissioner reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the war on drugs.
“We do not shy away from the fact that perception-wise, our efforts are being compromised by the involvement of police officers, and I want to reaffirm our commitment to changing that negative perception for the sake of gaining the trust and support of our communities.”
“It’s not too late as some are labeling current efforts made in curbing the illicit trade. There is strength in numbers, hence our request for community and stakeholder support. Together we can achieve a great deal in protecting our children and our beloved Fiji from the devastating impacts of illicit drugs,” he added.
