Raiwaqa residents alarmed by open drug activity and weak police response

Residents in several areas in Raiwaqa are raising serious concerns about ongoing drug-related activity, limited police intervention, and the growing risks faced by young people.

Christine Rabua voiced these concerns during a Counter Narcotics Bill consultation in Lami, saying trust in the police has significantly eroded, and many residents no longer feel safe reporting crimes directly to law enforcement.

She claims that despite multiple police visits, very little action has been taken.

Rabua also highlighted a property that has reportedly operated under suspicious circumstances for over three years.

She says the house has no electricity or running water, yet people continue to gather there.

Unfamiliar individuals are frequently seen coming and going, and residents strongly suspect drug activity is taking place.

Insert: Police walk in and out 10th Feb 26

Rabua says residents are questioning how such operations can continue so openly without effective enforcement, arguing that if the public can see what’s happening, the authorities should too.

She adds that youth in the area are increasingly being drawn into drug use and addiction due to unchecked illegal activity.

Community leaders are now calling for targeted awareness campaigns in neighbourhoods, churches, and grassroots spaces.

Rabua says while people are willing to speak out, they feel ignored by traditional reporting channels.

There is growing support for reporting through independent bodies rather than relying solely on the police.

She stresses the issue is not confined to one property, warning that drug-related activity is spreading and poses a real threat to community safety and the future of young people.

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu is calling on families and communities to work closely with law enforcement to curb youth involvement in illegal activities.

He says while police will continue to make arrests, when necessary, officers cannot be expected to guard properties 24/7, and much of the responsibility starts at home.

Tudravu highlights that many youths flee when they see police, which is why a proactive and preventative approach is needed.

He says it is important to identify the root causes of youth crime and address them together.