Counter Narcotics Bureau to be headed by someone from abroad - Tikoduadua

As Cabinet has approved the establishment of a Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau which will be an independent institution under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration, the Minister responsible, Pio Tikoduadua says the Bureau is expected to be allocated $2.5 million in the 2024/2025 National Budget and will initially be headed by someone from abroad.

While responding to questions by fijivillage News, Tikoduadua says the establishment of the Bureau is going to coordinate most of the government efforts to deal with our drug issue.

When asked about the danger of the Bureau being politicised and corrupt since it will be the responsibility of a Minister, Tikoduadua says the leader at this stage is expected to come from abroad and is someone who is an expert but they are looking at a local understudy to make sure that when this person leaves, they will have someone that will take over this particular role.

He says confidence is important and people need to trust the system that this is a move in the right direction by the Government.

He also confirms the Narcotics Bureau of the Fiji Police Force will be incorporated within this department.

It has been confirmed that the Bureau’s functions will include law enforcement; investigations; prosecution; intelligence gathering; and conducting awareness in collaboration with key agencies.

Cabinet also approved the development of a Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau Bill to empower the roles and functions of the Bureau.

The draft Bill will be considered by Cabinet following the necessary consultation process before it is tabled in Parliament.