Fiji plans new maritime police bases to combat drug trafficking - Acting AG Siromi Turaga

The Government is seeking support from international partners to establish police maritime forward bases in Lakeba, Savusavu, Denarau and Levuka, along with the acquisition of four police patrol vessels to strengthen maritime enforcement and response capabilities.

Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga highlighted this while responding to the President’s address in Parliament today, saying the move will allow faster police responses to maritime incidents and strengthen enforcement against trafficking routes.

Turaga says the proposed bases will also support coordinated outreach by multiple agencies to maritime communities.

He says the initiative forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to confront the growing illicit drug crisis in Fiji, which he described as a national emergency.

Turaga told Parliament that more than 2,400 drug-related cases were recorded nationwide in 2025 alone, with most offenders aged between 18 and 35, highlighting the severe impact of drugs on young people.

Insert: Siromi - Transnational hub for drugs 

Turaga says the increasing use of methamphetamine has also been linked to rising cases of HIV, making the drug crisis not only a law enforcement issue but also a serious public health concern.

He acknowledged the role played by the Fiji Police Force, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, as well as traditional and faith leaders in confronting the problem.

Turaga stresses that tackling illicit drugs requires a whole-of-nation approach involving communities, law enforcement agencies and Government institutions.

He says Government has intensified efforts to combat illicit drug cultivation, trafficking and distribution through joint Police and military operations targeting cultivation in remote interior areas and maritime trafficking routes.

Authorities are also strengthening intelligence-led policing and enhancing border security measures to improve the interception of illicit drugs and other contraband entering the country.

Turaga says the establishment of the Counter Narcotics Bureau will coordinate national efforts under key pillars including harm reduction, supply reduction, rehabilitation and treatment.

He says the bureau will also support faith-based transformation programmes to help offenders and addicts reintegrate into society, while strengthening family and community support systems.

Turaga further highlighted preventative initiatives under the Duavata Community Policing Framework, which include school awareness programmes, collaboration with the Substance Abuse Advisory Council in education institutions and youth-focused initiatives such as the Blue Light programme.

He also noted the Solesolevaki Ni Veitaqomaki – Matanitu, Vanua kei na Lotu initiative, aimed at strengthening community-based coastal maritime vigilance through cooperation between Government, traditional leadership and faith-based organisations.

Turaga says the initiative is being expanded across coastal iTaukei villages throughout the country to improve security and awareness at the community level.