WITH the country’s biggest secondary schools sporting event fast approaching, Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association secretary Biu Colati has assured the public that stringent measures will be in place to safeguard athletes and spectators from the growing drug threat.
Colati confirmed that the annual Coca-Cola Games (Fiji Finals) will operate under a strict drug-free and smoke-free policy, backed by a multi-agency approach.
“One of the things that I could assure the public and those that follow our game is that our game is now being decided to be a drug-free and a smoke-free game,” he said.
The association is working closely with key stakeholders including the Fiji Police Force, Land Transport Authority, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Education to ensure comprehensive coverage before, during and after the three-day meet.
“The police will be out there in numbers… they (public) will be facing all these canine units before they enter the arena,” Colati said.
He revealed that checkpoints will be set up in and around the venue, with strict screening protocols enforced.
“People are going to be asked to declare whatever they are carrying into the grounds… and we are going to be setting up checkpoints almost everywhere,” he said.
Security measures will also extend beyond the competition venue, with authorities monitoring the movement of teams travelling from around the country.
“It is mandatory for them to send us all the travel details… even the route which they will be taking,” Colati said.
“That information is sent to our partners, the police and the LTA… to help with movement and patrols.”
Colati emphasised that responsibility does not end once events conclude each day.
“It is not just about the game itself… it is also about after the game,” he said. “We want to know where they are sleeping, where they are going.”
He added that non-government organisations will also be involved, providing awareness and education on the dangers of drugs.
“It is almost a national duty now… to see that our students, our athletes are not accessible to these kinds of harmful substances,” Colati said.
With heightened security and coordinated planning, organisers are aiming to ensure a safe environment for thousands expected to attend the meet.
