PRF Expresses Grave Concerns Following Discovery of Needles and Syringes Amidst Rising Drug Cases
Amidst the rise in drug cases in Fiji, Pacific Recycling Foundation is issuing an urgent appeal, expressing deep concern over the recent discovery of used needles and syringes within its recycling programs in community and educational settings, as well as during clean-up campaigns.
PRF is alarmed by this troubling trend, as the presence of these materials in recycling programs is increasingly common and poses a significant threat to the health and safety of recycling workers and the public.
“It is extremely concerning that needles and syringes, which are classified as hazardous waste, are being improperly disposed of in recycling bins. Such careless actions put the lives of our recycling workers at significant risk, as they may come into contact with potentially contaminated needles,” said Amitesh Deo, Founder of PRF.
The discovery of needles and syringes in our recycling programs and similar findings during a recent PRF-organised cleanup campaign in Koronivia is particularly troubling.
“As a grassroots organisation, we are witnessing the magnitude of Fiji’s drug crisis in the different communities we work with as well as through a disturbing increase in needles and syringes found in our recycling programs and during community clean-ups,” said Deo.
“There is an urgent need to create referral pathways and establish rehabilitation facilities with a specialised support structure to deal with the current drug crisis,” stressed Deo.
PRF emphasises that all medical waste, including needles and syringes, must be disposed of through proper, secure channels. Recycling programs are not equipped to handle hazardous materials, and the presence of such items in the recycling stream poses serious risks, including potential injuries and the spread of diseases.
“We urge all sectors to act responsibly and ensure that hazardous waste is disposed of correctly,” added Deo.
The Foundation also calls for increased vigilance and cooperation from all sectors to prevent further risks associated with the improper disposal of hazardous waste.
“We cannot afford to overlook the potential dangers posed by these practices. The safety of our workers and the success of our recycling efforts depend on immediate action and accountability,” highlighted Deo.
Tonga Police seize 6.1kg meth, arrest 17, in raids on drugs syndicate
Tonga Police have arrested 17 people, including a customs officer, a prison officer, and two Comanchero gang members, and a local businessman in a major crackdown on methamphetamine trafficking.
The raids, conducted between 09 and 17 August on Tongatapu, seized 6.1 kilogrammes of meth allegedly imported from the U.S.
Authorities warn that they will not tolerate the rise of organised crime and gang activity in the Kingdom.
The suspects are accused of involvement in the import, sale, and distribution of the drugs, as well as laundering the proceeds.
Tonga Police, in collaboration with the Ministry of Revenue and Customs, made it clear that they are determined to disrupt and bring to justice those involved in drug trafficking and gang activities in the Kingdom.
“He has been arrested for money laundering, in relation to his role in facilitating payments of the proceeds from the import and supply of illicit drugs from the Kingdom to drug importers in the United States.”
Tonga Police stated that all suspects and seized items are currently in police custody.
“Tonga Police is sending a clear message to organised crime syndicates involved in the illegal importation of drugs and laundering of the proceeds, and OMCGs (Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs). We will not tolerate any illegal activities, and we will do everything in our power to identify, disrupt and bring to justice those involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, and to seize and confiscate the proceeds and assets purchased with the proceeds of crime. We need to strongly remind the public that the illegal import and export of illicit drugs (Class A) can result in life imprisonment.”
“Tonga Police would also like to warn the public about the increased presence and illegal activities of the Comanchero OMCG in our community. There is no place in the Kingdom of Tonga for gangs, and those who wish to associate with these types of gangs and their illegal activities. Tonga Police is committed to working together with Customs and other stakeholders in Tonga, and with our international partners, to ensure Tonga is not a haven for criminals and gangs,” Police said.
Palau grapples with growing drug crisis as Police struggle with resources and leadership
Drug use in Palau has become a significant public concern, with residents voicing alarm over its impact, particularly on young children.
The issue was highlighted during recent state visits across Palau, where citizens expressed fears that drug abuse is rampant and even affecting elementary school students.
During a recent Ministry of Justice (MOJ) radio show, Criminal Investigations Division Lieutenant Gabriel acknowledged the severity of the problem.
“I admit drugs are a big issue in Palau,” he said, noting that all illegal drugs enter the country through the airport and the port. He pointed to a recent surge in theft reports as evidence of the growing drug crisis.
The Narcotics Unit, tasked with combating this issue, is severely understaffed, with only seven officers, including one customs officer. The unit’s organisational chart indicates that it should have a minimum of 16 officers to operate effectively.
While President Surangel Whipps Jr expressed gratitude to the congress for increasing the MOJ’s budget during a recent press conference, many police officers argue that the drug problem is not solely due to a lack of resources. They believe the issue is also tied to broader management challenges within the MOJ, particularly the absence of a permanent director.
When questioned about the use of drug-detecting K9 units, Chief Sengebau explained that these dogs are intended to help detect drugs at the borders.
He added that the Transnational Crimes Division, which oversees human trafficking and the Narcotics Unit, is responsible for the K9 units. However, he stated that he had been directed by the MOJ’s director to focus solely on drug issues, leaving human trafficking and K9 operations to the director.
Director Levite, who leads MOJ from abroad, had downplayed the drug problem in Palau, stating that human trafficking was a more significant issue during a Senate oversight hearing in 2023. The MOJ’s approach to drug enforcement has shifted with the Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement Agency (NEA) absorbed into one of seven divisions managed by Director Levite.
Since Levitre left for the United States in March, the MOJ has seen six acting directors, including instances where one acting director had to appoint another while on official trips off-island.
By law, President Whipps is responsible for appointing the Director of the Bureau of Public Safety. However, Levitre’s return date remains uncertain, with the President only stating that Levitre will return “soon.”
As the MOJ struggles with understaffing across its many divisions, the public’s concern about drugs remains high, underscoring the urgent need for effective leadership and resources to address the escalating crisis.