Counter Narcotics Bureau back with Police Force after it fails to deliver results

The Counter Narcotics Bureau has been temporarily returned to the Police Force for retraining after its initial structure failed to deliver results.

This has been confirmed by Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua while speaking during the National Pastoral Response to Drugs meeting organised by the Fiji Council of Churches

He emphasises this is a rebuilding effort, not a disbandment.

Naivalurua further says delay in the establishment of Counter Narcotics Bureau has contributed to the worsening of the drug situation in the country.

He says plans to establish a Counter Narcotics Bureau were first proposed in 2011, but no action was taken until 2023.

Naivalurua says he had recommended the formation of the Bureau during his term as Commissioner of Police and earlier decisive action could have helped prevent the severity of Fiji’s current drug crisis.

Under the Narcotics Strategy 2023–2028, he says that the government is reviewing and strengthening its programs to ensure they are effective and sustainable.

He outlines a two-pronged approach — a black glove enforcement strategy led by police, immigration, and border agencies, and a white glove community-driven strategy involving churches, families, schools, and civil society.

Naivalurua urges families to remain vigilant, noting that schools are reviewing drug education curricula, and called on community groups to play more active roles.

He says churches and faith-based organisations have a unique role to play because of their deep community ties and heart of love, which can complement government enforcement efforts.

The Minister stresses that success in tackling drugs requires unity, coordination, and a deep understanding of the challenges ahead.

He also expresses optimism that outcomes from the workshop would help shape practical strategies and strengthen partnerships between government, police, military, churches, and communities.