SUVA, 24 JULY 2019 (FBC NEWS) — Fiji’s Police Commissioner believes an increase in the use of hard drugs could be contributing to the rise in criminal activities.
Sitiveni Qiliho says an increasing number of youth who are known to be involved with methamphetamines and other drugs, are presenting symptoms of mental illnesses.
“I think people don’t really realise the effects of this and how it’s also driving criminal activity. After they’ve taken the drug for a certain time period, the urge comes back and could result in quick snatch type robberies that they need to trade something to buy something else to keep them going again.”
The Police Commissioner says they’re working closely with NGOs, Church Groups and the Defence Ministry to create awareness on this issue.
“There seems to be not enough awareness in that regard that these are the effects. I’m thankful to our U.S special agent with the U.S embassy who have gone out and spoken at Marist Brothers High School with our officers going out and speaking as well.”
The Volatabu Group that advocates on drug issues in Fiji, is warning the public to be aware of the side effects.
Chief executive, Kalesi Volatabu believes everyone has to work together to curb the growing drug problem.
“If you have a relationship with ice or meth, the drug psychosis of that is obviously makes you violent, your emotion is multiplied 20 times. You’re not just harming yourself but literally harming those around you as well, said Volatabu.
The Police Force also has plans to establish a special unit tasked to create awareness on the increasing issues related to drugs in the country.
Source: PACNEWS
