PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced his opinion about the security situation in the country as momentum builds in the intensified war against drugs.
He hopes fear of the military is not the deterrent behind changing public behaviour in Suva, but greater awareness of crime and drugs.
Now that makes sense. But then there is the issue of the recent death of Jone Vakarisi in military custody to consider. There are obviously troubling circumstances to consider as well.
We have the injuries sustained by men who were taken up to the army camp with him to reflect on.
One of them, interviewed by The Fiji Times spoke about systematic beating, alleging he was beaten and suffered injuries on his back, his stomach and legs.
Speaking to The Fiji Times, Mr Rabuka said there had been no official report confirming the apparent change in public behaviour, but acknowledged observations that the Capital City has seemed less active in that regard.
He said he would prefer the shift to be driven by increased public awareness of crime and drug-related issues, rather than concern over the involvement of the military in supporting police operations.
He said he hoped the shift was not because of the army’s presence, but rather due to the increased visibility and discussion of crime and drugs in recent days, which may have encouraged people to be more cautious.
Mr Rabuka also pointed out that this sense of caution may extend beyond those involved in illegal activities.
He suggested that many people, regardless of their background, may now be more alert and mindful of their actions.
If that heightened awareness translates into fewer incidents, then it could be viewed as a positive development, provided it is rooted in understanding and not fear. Still, questions will be raised about the link between the military’s role and changing perceptions and behaviour in the city.
Understandably there will be an appreciation that in the face of apparent fear could also be concern and a move to keep a low profile perhaps, at least on the part of those who are involved in the illicit drug trade.
What would be good though for all of us is if we all unite in this war against drugs.
That would mean understanding and appreciating that the police and military cannot do this on their own.
They need us all to be engaged. They need us to be willing to embrace the direction the nation needs to take to rid us of this scourge of society.
That would mean being aware and staying within the law. It would mean a change in mindset.
We can only hope that what is happening now on the part of the security forces is going to inch out that change in mindset. That there will be a willingness to engage, and a concerted effort to stay drug free!
