Marijuana use is often the gateway to more dangerous drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine, says Police Inspector Isaia Donu.
Speaking at the recent International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking event in Labasa, Mr Donu said marijuana remained widely used in Fiji, but its risks were often underestimated.
“If someone is using marijuana, it will lead him or her to methamphetamine and then to cocaine,” he said.
He said there were three types of marijuana commonly found in Fiji and warned the drug had serious effects on mental health.
“Marijuana contains a chemical which can badly affect a person’s mental health. This is the reason we always tell people not to use drugs, as it will ruin your career.”
He also raised concerns about the changing nature of methamphetamine trafficking into the country.
“Methamphetamine is now coming into the country in liquid form and needles, making it more dangerous and harder to detect.”
“There are still more cases of marijuana in Fiji. Do not use drugs. It can damage your education.”
Mr Donu urged families to be more involved and speak openly with their children to keep them away from harmful substances.
