SUVA, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Fiji's Ministry of Home Affairs has expressed concern about the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs entering the island nation.
The issue was a focal point of discussions during a two-day workshop in Suva, reported the state-owned Fiji Broadcasting Corporation on Thursday.
Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Home Affairs Mason Smith said efforts were underway to enhance the monitoring process for controlled drugs imported and exported by local pharmacies.
He said there was now a heightened focus on methamphetamine and glue-related incidents.
The ministry is also working on finalizing the draft National Counter Illicit Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028 and plans a potential review of policies and legislation.
It was also confirmed at the workshop that about 7,000 patients have been treated at Saint Giles Hospital due to drug related abuse.
Smith said they wanted to detect and destroy the abuse of drugs as it has an impact on the economy.
Principal Medical Officer of Saint Giles Hospital Kiran Gaikwad confirmed that approximately 80 percent of the cases were male patients, and they hoped the workshop would address the problem. ■
