SUVA, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Fiji's escalating illicit drug crisis has been labelled a national emergency, with 2,400 drug-related cases recorded so far in 2025.
Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua made the remarks during the National Talanoa Session on Responding to Illicit Drugs in Fiji on Wednesday.
Naivalurua revealed that the majority of offenders are aged between 18 and 35, reported Fijivillage news website.
He said recent major drug seizures have exposed Fiji's vulnerability to transnational trafficking syndicates and highlighted the growing presence of methamphetamine in the country.
The minister emphasized that the crisis extends beyond law enforcement, describing it as a serious public health issue.
He also underscored the urgent need to strengthen treatment and rehabilitation services for those struggling with addiction.
The National Talanoa Session aims to transform shared perspectives into concrete strategies to tackle drug trafficking, addiction and related health concerns, including HIV, through targeted and coordinated interventions. ■
