Tribunal questions FCS’s denying officers drug test results

The Tribunal Court in Suva has questioned the withholding of test results from the Fiji Corrections Services’ officer who tested positive for methamphetamine following the random drug test at the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) in February.

These queries came during the testimony of corrections officer, Adrian Bukavulo and FCS Lab manager, Shelvin Prakash during the tribunal hearing yesterday.

The hearing is in relation to the suspension of FCS Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa.

In his account, Mr Bukavulo said he was among the five officers who took a random drug test, testing positive for methamphetamine.

After being informed the next day of this, Mr Bukavulo went to VanMed Lab to verify the results.

Mr Prakash confirmed having been asked about the lab results by Mr Bukavulo.

He said the lab’s official records showed MDMA not methamphetamine. He confirmed in court that MDMA was often found on people who were taking medications such as painkillers.

He said it was only when he told Mr Bukavulo about this, when he agreed that he had been taking Brufen to calm his swollen gum.

Mr Prakash then issued a caution note to FCS on the same day, explaining that methamphetamine and MDMA are chemically similar but have different effects on the body.

His note also made recommendations for a medical doctor to interpret the result and make a proper diagnosis.

FCS was cautioned that some prescription and over-the-counter medicines could produce false positives.

The tribunal heard that MDMA was listed as an illicit drug under Fiji’s Illicit Drugs Control Act, but its presence in certain medications meant that a doctor’s review was essential.

He also noted that MDMA could remain detectable in urine for up to three months after use.

Justice Tuiqereqere said it ‘seemed strange’ that these officers were denied their right to get access to their test results, especially when they were subjected to the test without their consent.

The tribunal heard that Mr Bukavulo wrote to Mr Nakarawa seeking redress for what he described as an unfair dismissal but was turned down with no reconsideration.

Mr Bukavulo said his termination impacted his family financially, bringing humiliation and damaging his reputation and no support.

The tribunal hearing continues today.

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