Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure has warned that guns are now being used in Fiji’s growing illicit drug trade.
“Gun violence is now part of the drug trade,” he said.
The use of firearms by drug dealers, Ratu Rakuita said, was a growing concern for the country’s borders and public safety.
“This makes the illicit trade of drugs a major threat to Fiji’s border,” the assistant minister said as he urged communities to wake up and start involving themselves in the fight against illicit drugs.
“In a recent drug bust, suspects tried to flee the authorities, and they fled to Taveuni.
“This should be a wake-up call for us.”
While the military is not usually involved in domestic issues, Ratu Rakuita said, they would act if Fiji’s sovereignty was at risk.
“The military will step in if needed to protect our sovereignty.”
He said Government’s priority was the protection and safety of the wellbeing of the people of Fiji.
