Journalists agree that collaborative action required for fight against drugs

Pacific journalists participating in the Reporting Drug Crisis panel discussion in Suva today have agreed that the fight against the rise in the trade and use of drugs should be fought in collaboration with others at the national and regional level.

While speaking during the Pacific Media Partnership Conference, the journalists highlighted the downplaying of the drugs crisis as a major issue, threats within the community, the need to protect the journalists covering these dangerous issues, and the real need for counseling and mentoring support.

Communications Fiji Limited News Director and moderator, Vijay Narayan says according to a comprehensive report done by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime, Fiji tops the list in terms of being a hub for drug smuggling, and other countries within the region that were pointed out, include Papua New Guinea and Tonga.

He says those in Australia, New Zealand and other developed countries should work in collaboration with Pacific journalists, and this should include support and training, as the criminal organizations that were strategically targeting lucrative markets in Australia and New Zealand, where the street value of methamphetamine and cocaine is among the highest in the world, are now also targeting the Pacific.

Fiji TV journalist Mereoni Mili and Fijian Broadcasting Corporation journalist Apenisa Waqairadovu have revealed that reporters are frequently threatened by drug offenders outside court for covering their cases.

They say these threats often include verbal abuse and intimidation.

Mili explained that reporting on drug-related issues is particularly difficult due to the close-knit nature of Fijian communities, where everyone knows each other.

She says police recently conducted two drug raids in her neighbourhood, making it even more challenging to protect herself and her family.

Mili says another major concern is safeguarding the identity of sources who provide crucial information.

Waqairadovu says one of the biggest challenges journalists face is the lack of coordination between the media and authorities, particularly the police.

He says while people sometimes provide valuable tips, verifying them is risky, and unlike larger media organizations in other countries, Fijian media can’t afford private security or bodyguards to ensure their safety while investigating drug-related matters.

When asked about the increasing production of methamphetamine in Fiji and the inconsistencies in official statistics prior to the 2022 elections, Waqairadovu says the rise in HIV cases is linked to injectable drug use and many drug users are now living on the streets. He further stated that some high-ranking officials within the Fiji Police Force have admitted that hard drugs like methamphetamine have been present in the country for at least four decades.

Waqairadovu says we acted like this problem didn't exist for years, but the reality is that drugs has been in Fiji for a long time.

Narayan adds there are increasing concerns that many returning illegal immigrants or deportees are linked to the drug trade in the Pacific region.