PARENTS have been issued a strong warning as thousands of students converge on Suva tomorrow for the three-day annual Coke Games, with authorities highlighting growing risks linked to drugs and unsupervised accommodation.
National Substance Abuse Advisory Council acting chief executive Josua Naisele said the influx of students into the Capital places them in a high-risk environment, urging families to take extra precautions.
He stressed the importance of parents knowing where their children will stay, amid reports of students independently seeking short-term rentals and hotel bookings.
“Unsupervised accommodation increases vulnerability to unsafe behaviour and illicit activities,” Mr Naisele said in a notice that was shared to schools.
He also warned to be aware of reports that some students were being targeted by drug dealers, with police already recording cases involving youths found in possession of illicit substances.
Students are being urged to avoid any association with drugs, whether as users or intermediaries.
Mr Nasele reminded parents that the Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces have intensified operations in Suva, targeting drug-related activities during this period.
He advised parents to ensure children travel with trusted companions, share contact details, and maintain regular communication.
Teachers accompanying students have also been called on to remain vigilant.
With multiple sporting events underway nationwide, Mr Naisele emphasised that safety must come first, reminding families to remain alert and prioritise the wellbeing of their children.
Drug use by in school has been an ongoing concern and dates back to early 2022 when two students were found with cocaine and marijuana in school.
Last year the NSAAC recorded a total of 32 drug-related cases – of which 12 were related to marijuana and two to methamphetamine.
At a recent consultation, teachers raised serious concerns about drug use among school children, saying the problem was now affecting primary school students.
