Drug traffickers attempting to bring illicit substances into the Lau Group have been warned to stay away, as community leaders take a firm stand against the spread of drugs in the province.
Lau Provincial Council chairman Ratu Meli Saubulinayau issued this warning during an interview with this newspaper after the opening of the National Pastoral Response to Drugs workshop in Suva yesterday.
“For those people who are taking drugs into Lau — whether you are from here or not — you are not welcome,” Ratu Meli said.
“You should stop while it is still peaceful before legal action is taken to curb you from bringing drugs to the islands.”
He said drugs were being brought into Lau from outside the province, adding to challenges already faced by remote island communities.
While police continue to handle drug-related cases, Ratu Meli stressed that the vanua and local communities must play a stronger role in protecting their people. The province’s geography and limited maritime monitoring have made it vulnerable to drugs entering through poorly controlled sea routes.
“Communities must understand the seriousness of this problem and take ownership of preventing drugs from spreading further.”
Ratu Meli emphasised that Lau was seeking peace and stability but will not tolerate activities that endanger families and young people.
