POLICE are moving to tighten law enforcement in Suva following concerns over drug peddling in the city.
Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga confirmed the force is aware of a recent case in which a tourist filming in the city was approached by suspected drug dealers.
“We are aware, and operations are looking into the matter,” he said.
“We will step up on the enforcement of removing those who are loitering or acting in a suspicious manner, as well as the deployment of capabilities such as the K9 Unit,” he said.
Responding to questions from The Fiji Times, Mr Lutunauga said checkpoint officers were carrying out more than traffic enforcement.
“Officers manning checkpoints conduct more than just traffic duties or enforcement; they also conduct checks, on the lookout for suspicious activities, and this has led to a number of arrests for those found in possession and also cases of proceeds of crime,” he said.
Concerns have also been raised over safety in the evenings around city’s food kiosks, where members of the public claim drug peddlers are active. Mr Lutunauga said patrols were ongoing to monitor these areas. On drug activity in public housing estates, the Acting Commissioner said police were working closely with the Public Rental Board (PRB).
“We (Police) have an MOU with the Public Rental Board, and this has led to the sharing of information, working together for the purpose of information gathering, to improve the peace, safety, and security within the PRB estates,” he said.
He said community policing initiatives were being expanded in partnership with stakeholders.
“Through our community policing arm, we are working together with other stakeholders, conducting various empowerment and awareness programs for the residents, targeting all age groups,” he said.
The force has assured the public it will continue to ramp up operations against drug peddling in both urban and community settings.