Police and military personnel will remain in Naweni until December after community leaders praised a joint operation that has improved safety, reduced drug activity and helped young people move into farming and other productive work.
Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua confirmed the extension following discussions at the recent Cakaudrove Provincial Council meeting, which was opened by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Naivalurua says during the discussion session, the Matanitikina of Cakaudrove commended the work of the joint Police and military operation in Naweni, saying it has made the village and surrounding communities much safer.
He says community leaders highlighted that the operation has not only improved security but has also contributed to better livelihoods for residents, with many young people now involved in farming and other income-generating activities.
The Minister says because of the positive changes being seen in the area, a request was made for the deployment of officers to be extended until December so they can continue their work.
Naivalurua says he approved the request and confirmed that Police and military personnel will remain in Naweni until the end of the year.
Insert: Naivalurua on approved request 11th June 26
Chairman of the Cakaudrove Provincial Council, Sinio Vukica, says Police and military officers have been stationed in Naweni since last year as part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs and combat drug-related activities.
Vukica says concerns were raised during the Provincial Council meeting that some young people could return to drugs if security forces leave the area.
He says 139 villages have already been registered under the initiative.
Vukica also highlighted that during a Provincial Council meeting in Somosomo two years ago, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu stressed that anyone found using or selling drugs in a village should be immediately exiled.
He says many villages have also introduced their own rules and bylaws to address drug use and other social issues.
Vukica adds that the Provincial Council also discussed plans to build a school in Naweni for youth dropouts, similar to the Centre for Appropriate Technology Development.
Naivalurua thanked the people of Naweni and the chiefs of Cakaudrove for recognising the efforts of the joint operations team, saying it was encouraging to hear community members acknowledge the positive impact of the operation.
