iTAUKEI Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu says dealing with drug offenders in villages can be a complicated process.
While speaking about people evicted from villages after being found in possession of illicit drugs, Mr Vasu said it was easier to remove individuals who were not originally from the villages.
However, he said, the situation becomes more complex when those involved are part of the koro or registered in the Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB).
“We are concerned about how this might affect relationships within the community,” Mr Vasu said, adding he was aware of many villages taking action on their own to address the drug problem.
“I believe that in many cases, villages have taken an automatic stance on this.”
Mr Vasu said the ministry was working on introducing village by-laws to help leaders and the vanua better handle such issues.
“These laws are aimed at supporting community leaders in managing discipline and maintaining order.
“We accept our responsibility. We must do our part and speak directly to families.”
He said the ministry would seek help from traditional leaders and work closely with the police to address the problem.
“It’s a major issue, but that’s okay, we are not shying away from it.
“The problem is real, and we will do our best to address it.”
