THE people of Lau are prepared to act as the first line of vigilance when suspected drug parcels wash ashore.
Traditional leaders in Lau are now pushing for a formal response protocol across the islands, amid growing concern over illicit substances being found along remote coastlines.
The turaga na Tui Nayau, Tui Lau Ratu Tevita Mara said community heads and chiefs had already begun guiding villagers on what to do if suspected drugs were discovered on their shores.
“The guidance our people follow, and which I urge every community to observe, is simple and firm,” he said.
“Do not touch, open or move the parcels; secure the area; and report immediately to the turaga ni koro, who will alert the nearest police station.”
He said the warning was important because suspected drug parcels posed a direct safety risk to communities, particularly children.
Ratu Tevita referred to a previous incident where children mistook the contents of a parcel for milk powder and opened it.
He said this showed why the message had to be clear in every village.
“So, the message must be clear in every village – do not handle these things and report them at once.”
He said traditional leaders could guide communities, uphold values and help keep young people connected to their vanua and identity.
“That is why I have asked that these structures be strengthened in law and properly resourced, so that our authority is not only moral, but practical.”
Ratu Tevita said the vanua was ready to assist national authorities, but communities needed to be properly equipped to do so.
He said people in Lau were on the water and reefs every day, placing them in a strong position to notice and report suspicious activity quickly.
With the right tools and a clear line of communication to authorities, the Tui Nayau said communities could become a reliable network of local observers supporting the national response.
“Enforcement provides the response capacity; the community provides the vigilance. Neither succeeds alone.”
