Fiji’s government is contemplating deploying military personnel to assist police in combating the nation’s escalating drug crisis.
Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua confirmed that the Fiji Police Force has sought support from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). He emphasized that the military would serve strictly in a supporting capacity.
“Deploying the military is a serious decision that must only be made as a last resort, and only in situations where civilian mechanisms have been fully utilised and found insufficient,” Tikoduadua stated.
He reassured citizens that there is “nothing to fear,” expressing gratitude to the RFMF for its steadfastness. Tikoduadua highlighted the military’s evolution, noting significant progress in reconciliation and restoration efforts.
He stressed the importance of defining the RFMF’s role under the National Security Strategy to ensure legal consistency.
The minister acknowledged the complex nature of Fiji’s drug problem, linking it to societal issues such as poverty, limited employment opportunities, educational challenges, family disruptions, and difficulties in accessing healthcare and rehabilitation services.
He cautioned that increasing arrests or deploying armed forces would not resolve these systemic problems.
Tikoduadua reiterated that the primary responsibility for combating drugs lies with the police, and the military’s involvement should remain exceptional, not routine. He clarified that any decision to deploy the RFMF would be made by the Police Commissioner, assessing whether all civilian options have been exhausted.
This announcement comes amid a surge in drug-related incidents in the Pacific region, with several recent busts leading to arrests and pending court cases.
Officials have noted challenges in recruiting police officers, citing rising drug-related violence, technological and resource constraints, and the need to maintain adequate police staffing levels.
Tikoduadua emphasized that while the RFMF is a pillar of stability for the nation, its involvement in domestic issues must remain exceptional. He concluded, “The primary role of combating drugs in Fiji is a police role. The RFMF, it’s not their primary role to deal with this issue.”