Opposition member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj has called on Government to push for stronger support from Australia in Fiji’s fight against drug trafficking, arguing that Fiji is carrying the social and financial burden of a narcotics trade largely targeting the Australian market.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Mr Maharaj said Fiji’s strategic location had made it vulnerable to international drug syndicates using the country as a transit point.
“The primary high-value final destination for this massive shipment of illicit drugs is Australia,” Mr Maharaj said.
“Because Australia is the ultimate target destination for this transitional cartel, they bear a significant regional responsibility.”
He warned that Fiji was suffering the consequences of a trade driven by overseas demand. Mr Maharaj urged Government to seek expanded operational assistance from Australian authorities to strengthen Fiji’s response capabilities.
“We call on the Government to aggressively negotiate with Australian counterparts to expand direct operational support.
“Australia must provide enhanced marine surveillance, advanced intelligence sharing and substantial funding for domestic rehabilitation to help us steer this crisis.”
