Youths turn to marijuana

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Marijuana plants in a farm raided by police on Vanua Levu. Picture: FIJI POLICE FORCE

More youths are planting marijuana than traditional root crops, according to a Korolevu youth Filimone Maicau.

He said most youths facing financial challenges turn to marijuana because it was easier to cultivate and faster to harvest.

“It is easy money,” he said.

Filimone said young people in villages who were found to be planting marijuana were always referred to the police.

“Currently, the Fiji Police Force is conducting raids in the district of Navatu in Cakaudrove,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru is urging youths to be pillars of change.

“Rather than planting marijuana, you youths should take the lead in creating change in your community,” he said.

“You will be the leaders one day.”

Questions about the farm raids sent to the Fiji Police Force remained unanswered when this edition went to press.