POLICE will lead a tougher anti-drug fight with military support in remote terrain as Government ramps up a coordinated national crackdown.
Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua says the illicit drug crisis demands stronger cooperation between security forces while keeping policing powers with the Fiji Police Force.
“The Government recognises that the illicit drug situation facing Fiji is a serious national challenge, and it requires a coordinated response across institutions and communities,” he said.
Under the proposed arrangement, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces would support police operations in difficult terrain and remote interior areas where illicit cultivation has been identified.
“The Fiji Police Force remains the lead agency responsible for the maintenance of law and order under the law. Discussions with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces are focused on strengthening cooperation in areas where the military’s capabilities can complement police operations, particularly in challenging environments such as remote interior locations and difficult terrain where illicit cultivation has been identified.” He stressed the move was not new, pointing to past cooperation between Fiji’s disciplined forces during national security operations, where the military provided logistics, mobility and surveillance assistance where needed.
“All such cooperation is guided by established legal and operational frameworks and remains subject to the authority of the law and oversight of Government.”
