AS drugs become a major concern in Fiji, there is now a proposal for a separate facility for drug dealers and users as part of efforts to strengthen rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Auta Moceisuva said the idea was being considered as authorities continued to deal with drug-related offences both inside correctional facilities and in the wider community.
He said drugs remained one of the biggest challenges facing the country today.
“Drugs are one of the major issues in Fiji today. We also have drug offenders within our facilities, as well as challenges in the wider community,” he said.
He said the Corrections Service was already working to prevent drugs and contraband from entering prisons through regular security checks and strict monitoring.
“We will also have awareness programs going inside. We will have medical services educating prisoners that the use of drugs is not good personally to them, as well as in life after imprisonment back to society.”
He said discussions were also underway with local and international partners to explore the establishment of a dedicated rehabilitation centre.
He said the proposed facility would be different from the normal prison system, focusing specifically on treatment and recovery.
“In Fiji, we are also considering this approach. We have held discussions with both local and international organisations to facilitate this new facility.”
He said the centre would include professionals such as psychologists, counsellors, doctors and nurses to support rehabilitation and reintegration.
The proposed prison facility is expected to be built in Naboro
