In a move to combat drug use and related violence, 14 former drug addicts in the “vanua o Suva” have stepped up to become community wardens in their settlements.
They are working alongside police to prevent the spread of drugs and violence against women, girls, and children.
Turaga na Tui Suva Ratu Sanaila Mudunavosa said the initiative was born out of village meetings where the former addicts volunteered to lead by example, using their experiences to help others break free from substance abuse.
“These 14 former drug addicts had spoken up during our village meetings and they had decided to come forward and say ‘yes’ to being drug wardens.” Ratu Sanaila said.
“It’s a good thing that this is being implemented to show that we actually care for our children and people.
“Under this scheme, the wardens will be the first point of contact when drug-related cases emerge in their settlements and will coordinate directly with the police to report regularly during village meetings on changes in behaviour and any progress in their areas.”
He said the approach had a ‘three strike’ policy, where offenders caught with drugs would be given warnings.
“If caught the third time, they will be asked to leave the village and find another place to stay,” he said.
“We need to think of our children and how their future will be if this drug takes over our lives,” he said.
“This initiative not only aims to curb drug use but also reduce violence against women and children, which community members say is often linked to substance abuse.”
