Fiji not taking HIV seriously enough: COMPOL

The Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu has called for urgent, co-ordinated action to address rising HIV cases and illicit drug use, warning that failure to act will have serious consequences for future generations.

Speaking at the multicultural week panel discussion at the Fiji National University School of Nursing campus in Tamavua yesterday, Mr Tudravu said Fiji was not taking HIV seriously enough despite increasing cases.

He stressed the need for more aggressive and targeted responses.

Mr Tudravusaid the rise in drug use was closely linked to the increase in HIV infections, describing both as behavioural and societal issues that require immediate intervention beyond traditional law enforcement approaches.

He said that if decisive action was not taken, these issues would continue to affect future generations, including children born into circumstances shaped by the decisions of others.

Communities must confront the growing normalisation of drug-related income and behavioural, cautioning that such acceptance could entrench the problem further if not addressed.

Mr Tudravu called for stronger collaboration between law enforcement, health professionals, community leaders and other stakeholders to effectively tackle the crisis.

“More community engagement, particularly involving young people, as their participation is critical in shaping solutions and safeguarding the country’s future,” he said.