75 percent increase in drug-related offences in February - Chew

Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew is seriously concerned on the 75 percent increase in drug-related offences in February this year, that has contributed to the 14 percent increase in crime.

ACP Chew says the increase in drugs is reflective of the organisation’s commitment to fighting the war on drugs on all fronts, including within the Fiji Police Force.

He also acknowledged the concerns raised on the involvement of Police officers in the illicit drug trade that has undermined public confidence.

He also reaffirmed his stance on curbing all forms of police-related corruption and misconduct.

He adds the 189 drug cases recorded last month were mainly from unlawful possession of illicit drugs. Of the 167 cases, 21 cases were related to the unlawful cultivation of illicit drugs and one case of unlawful exportation of illicit drugs.

ACP Chew says collaboration is a fundamental proactive policing strategy, and the Fiji Police will continue to work on strengthening and sustaining multi-sector police-community relationships through consultation and collaborative policing.