‘Drug probes take time’

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COMPOL Rusiate Tudravu – Picture/FANE LEDUA

POLICE investigations into major drug networks take time because authorities must first understand and dismantle the structure behind the operations, says Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu.

He made the comment in response to public concerns that police were focusing on “small fish” in the drug trade rather than targeting those allegedly behind larger criminal networks.

“You have to understand the network and how we untangle networks,” he said.

He said police had already acted on several names that had been publicly raised, including claims circulating on social media, and confirmed that cases had been brought against some of those individuals.

Mr Tudravu also called on members of the public to assist police by coming forward with credible information regarding suspected drug kingpins or others involved in illicit drug activities.

“If people have information, they should provide it to police.”

He expressed confidence in the progress police had made so far in tackling drug-related crimes and organised networks.