Opposition MP Semi Koroilavesau says Fiji’s fight against narcotics and transnational crime hinges not just on surveillance technology but on the physical capability of the navy to patrol and protect the nation’s vast waters.
Responding to Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua’s ministerial statement on the new Vuvale Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC), Mr Koroilavesau said while the facility in Lami would strengthen intelligence sharing and coordination, Fiji must not overlook the importance of boots on the ground and ships at sea.
“This … is a huge challenge and a huge responsibility for our agencies that look after the borders, especially in protecting against the illegal introduction of drugs, illegal fishing, and illegal immigrants,” he told Parliament.
Mr Koroilavesau praised the MESC’s role in enhancing surveillance and enforcement, but urged Government to ensure the navy has the assets and resources to back up intelligence with visible presence.
“I ask Government to look at the capability of the ships that the navy has and the capabilities they are able to portray in covering these areas,” he said.
“Deploying our military assets more effectively … gives a bigger image that we are awake, and we are looking, and gives that protection to improve us in our maritime zone.”
He acknowledged Fiji’s partnerships with Australia and New Zealand in bolstering security across the Pacific but said those partnerships must translate into stronger frontline presence to deter drug traffickers and other criminal networks exploiting Fiji’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone.
