Used needles are regularly found in Savusavu Town, according to the chairperson of its special administrators, Shankar Singh.
Mr Singh said discarded needles were found by staff almost every day on the street.
“People have complained about finding needles behind the market, but when we tell the police, they do nothing,” he said, adding that the issue is becoming more dangerous.
“It’s not just an eyesore, it’s a health hazard. We’re talking about used needles, which could spread diseases like HIV.”
He said the council had been trying to tackle the issue but without support from the police or other authorities, it had been difficult to do so.
“We need stronger cooperation from law enforcement. Right now, the situation is out of control, and it is affecting the safety of our citizens.
“We’ve even had reports of children playing near the market and getting injured. It’s a nightmare.”
Mr Singh urged the community to help in identifying those responsible for discarding needles and to report any suspicious activity.
“This is a problem we can solve together if we take action now,” he said.
In response, the Fiji Police Force said the divisional police commander would conduct a meeting to sort out the issues raised.
