Lau raises alarm over escalating drug crisis, calls for urgent national action

The Province of Lau, led by its paramount chief, the Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Nayau, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara has raised serious concerns over the escalating crisis of drug trafficking and smuggling in Fiji.

Ratu Tevita says recent major drug busts in the Western Division and Suva highlight the urgent need for a coordinated national response.

He says the growing wave of drug-related offences threatens the foundation of communities and endangers the future of young people.

Ratu Tevita adds that inaction is no longer an option, and a comprehensive Government Strategy and Action Plan is critical to safeguard all Fijians and restore hope for the nation’s youth.

He is calling on Government, traditional Vanua leaders, and all faith communities—including Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and others—as well as non-government organisations, to unite against the escalating drug crisis.

Ratu Tevita says a whole-of-nation approach is needed, as many young people are being drawn into illegal activities due to socio-economic challenges such as poverty, limited education opportunities, and rising unemployment.

He says clear pathways to employment must be established, and drug awareness must be integrated into the education curriculum from primary school onwards, warning that failure to act could result in losing an entire generation to crime.

The Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Nayau says a holistic community approach is required—one that includes culture and traditional ways of life.

He emphasised that young people must be supported to reconnect with their Vanua, understand their identity, and embrace their culture and values.

Ratu Tevita says traditional leadership structures through vuvale, tokatoka, mataqali, and yavusa can play a critical role in this effort.

He also commended the work of organisations such as YADRA and others that are supporting and rehabilitating marginalised youth.

Ratu Tevita is further calling for an immediate review of the iTaukei Affairs Act to strengthen the authority of Village Councils, Tikina Councils, and Provincial Councils.

He says empowering local governance structures is essential to engaging communities in the fight against drugs.

Ratu Tevita adds that local leaders, including Turaga ni Koro and Mata ni Tikina, must be properly resourced—particularly in maritime provinces where challenges are greater.

He is also advocating for a legislative review to impose tougher penalties for drug offenders, including longer prison sentences and caning, while saying the death penalty should not be ruled out at this time.

Ratu Tevita says a clear and strong message must be sent that drug trafficking will not be tolerated.

He adds that while the death penalty may not be a complete deterrent, it should still be considered as a measure to protect society.

He also highlighted the urgent need to strengthen the presence of enforcement agencies within Fiji’s territorial waters and maritime provinces, particularly along known drug routes.

Ratu Tevita says some traditional owners have already taken steps to patrol their coastal waters but adds that in Lau, resources are limited and more Government support is needed due to the vast ocean and fishing grounds.

He warns that time is running out, and failure to act decisively now risks a dangerous future.

Ratu Tevita says strong collaboration is essential to restore safety and security in communities.

Chairman of the Lau Provincial Council, Ratu Meli Saubulinayau, echoed the concerns, saying they stand firmly behind the Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Nayau in this fight.

He says the response must be proactive and decisive, not merely reactive.

Ratu Tevita concluded by saying the nation must unite now to protect its people, stressing that the time for leaders to act is now, as the future of Fiji depends on collective action today.