It is time for the church not just to preach but to act – Naivalurua

Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua says the church is a powerful ally in the fight against drugs as it is already weaponised and has the arsenal to fight the war of eradicating drugs on the front-line.

While responding to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s opening address in Parliament, Naivalurua says the church plays a critical role, as it has historically been a cornerstone in shaping Fiji's moral and social fabric.

He says the church has the necessary spiritual and practical tools to address this issue at the grassroots level, however, it is time for it to rise to the occasion and fully embrace this responsibility.

The Minister says it must not remain a passive observer but actively engage in the fight, using its influence to not only heal but also combat this growing threat.

Naivalurua also called on traditional leaders to come together and rally their people in the collective fight against drugs.

The Minister also highlighted in Parliament that while their intelligence reveals that there is no local manufacturing of methamphetamine, he can confirm that there is a trans-shipment hub.

He says while external criminal activities seek to exploit our maritime and air routes, it is some of our people who have chosen to selfishly profit from a single trans-shipment and then distribute this form of death to their fellow citizens.

Naivalurua adds the gravity of the situation demands plain language, clear direction and decisive action.

The Minister also highlighted that his Ministry is reviewing the legislative arms that allow the Fiji Police Force to carry out its duties and responsibilities effectively.

He says the Police Act, which is a priority for the Force, was enacted in 1965 and designed during a time that has since passed, limiting its effectiveness and the ability of Force members to utilise new technology and expand their operational outreach.

Naivalurua says a review of the Fiji Police Act will enhance the delivery of effective and efficient law and order services and help rebuild trust and confidence within the Government, the Fiji Police Force and the public.

He further says the Illicit Drugs Act is also under review, and this will strengthen and streamline the work undertaken by the Police Force for the effective delivery of service.

He adds the Cabinet endorsed the establishment of the Counter Narcotic Bureau in 2024 as an independent institution.

The Minister says the Bureau's purpose is to coordinate the Government's efforts to tackle the rise in drug-related issues, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, investigations, prosecutions, intelligence gathering and raising awareness in collaboration with key agencies.

He says that they have completed the first draft of the Counter Narcotics Bill and will hold a consultation in the coming weeks to discuss the draft bill.