Double the threat

THE revelation that drug cases for January recorded a significant 94 per cent increase should be a concern. In fact our crime statistics paint a worrying picture, and there are two alarming trends: a 94 per cent increase in drug-related offences and a 31 per cent rise in crimes against women.

While Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew acknowledges the success of community collaborations in tackling some areas, these significant jumps should force us to sit up and take notice. They demand both urgency and a multifaceted approach.

The rise of drug cases, dominated by marijuana and methamphetamine, raises questions about supply chains, accessibility, and potential links to wider criminal activities.

How did we ever get to this stage? And this certainly isn’t something that just popped out of the woodworks either.

Mr Fong Chew rightly emphasized the need for community support, echoing the success of such partnerships in the Northern Division.

So expanding these collaborations across the country, leveraging local knowledge and trust, could prove crucial in disrupting drug networks.

However, the surge in crimes against women demands an even more nuanced response. The 17 per cent increase in domestic violence, perpetrated by spouses or partners, is worrying. It underscores the need for robust support systems for victims, alongside awareness campaigns that challenge harmful gender norms and empower women to seek help. The rise in reported rapes demands a thorough investigation into reporting mechanisms, ensuring accessibility and sensitivity towards victims.

We have always said that community engagement can play a vital role in addressing gender-based violence. Religious leaders, cultural figures, and civil society organisations can work together to promote gender equality, and encourage a change in mindset. Educational programs aimed at young people can foster healthy relationships and respect for diversity, potentially preventing future incidents. Addressing both the drug surge and the alarming rise in crimes against women requires a multi-pronged approach though. This is very important.

There should be greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies, communities, and civil society organisations. In fact we need everyone taking ownership of these challenges.

Through a comprehensive and collaborative effort, we can tackle these interconnected challenges and ensure the safety and wellbeing of every Fijian.

It makes sense then for us to understand what’s happening around us, appreciate the challenges which could be complex in some instances, and be motivated to work together for the betterment of our communities and subsequently our nation.

The figures are pretty serious, however, a united front could be the start we need in this fight!