TUI Nayau Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara has called on Government to establish a coast guard concept to strengthen Fiji’s response to illicit drugs being washed ashore on islands.
Ratu Tevita made the call while raising concerns over the continued discovery of drugs on beaches across Fiji, including the recent substances found on the islands of Moala and Moce.
“I propose the establishment of a coast guard concept within our maritime zones and littoral waters,” he said.
“This is a sustained and visible presence dedicated to the protection of our islands and our people.”
Ratu Tevita said Lau had previously benefited from regular naval patrols during the 1980s and 1990s, conducted as a matter of routine.
“In recent years, such visits have become infrequent, occurring largely in response to medical evacuations or search and rescue operations.”
He said the discovery of drugs on Fiji’s shores showed the need to extend prevention efforts further out to sea.
“As the evidence strongly suggests that these drugs originate offshore, I respectfully submit that the effort to prevent their importation must also be extended seaward, into the high seas where it begins.”
He said the sea had long sustained the people of Lau and must not become a source of harm for future generations.
“It must not be allowed to deliver poison to our children.”
Ratu Tevita said the vanua was ready to support national efforts against the drug trade, but communities needed to be properly equipped.
