Calls grow for drug court as communities frustrated by years‑long delays

A Ba community representative says drug cases taking “two, three, five, or even 10 years” to conclude are putting neighbourhoods at risk.

Community representative Salaseini Kacia is calling for a dedicated drug court with strict timelines, saying alleged offenders are walking freely while cases drag on.

She made the appeal at the draft Counter‑Narcotics Law consultation at the Ba Civic Centre.

Ms Kacia, who represents the Vatulaulau Crime Prevention Committee and manages the Vatulaulau Early Childhood Education Centre, said drug cases were taking far too long to conclude.

Ms Kacia, who is from Nasolo Village in Ba, said justice delayed was justice denied, and communities were paying the price.

“We should have a separate court for drug offenders,” she said.

“We see nowadays that the time frame to deal with drug cases takes years — two, three, five, or even 10 years before final judgment and that is too long.”

She said it was disheartening to see alleged offenders “caught red‑handed” walking freely in communities while their cases dragged on.

“Even when offenders are caught red‑handed, we see them roaming freely.”

She said those accused of serious drug offences should be remanded until their cases are determined.

“They should not be released, not even on bail. Drugs are deadly, and this is not just some small matter.”

Ms Kacia also questioned what she described as inconsistencies in the justice system, claiming minor theft offenders were often treated more harshly.

“People who steal from supermarkets or markets are put behind bars, but drug offenders get bail and move around freely for years,” she said.

“Why are the laws so unfair?”

She said a separate drug court with strict timelines and firm penalties would send a strong message nationwide.

“Cases should be dealt with within a timeframe, not dragged on for years and years.”