Cunningham a Red Zone for Drugs, Crime: Vosarogo

Cunningham in Nasinu near Suva is a red zone for drugs and crime.

And this is a concern by a former resident, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo. He said the area has been officially identified as a red zone for drugs and crime and is a growing concern that demands urgent action.

Mr Vosarogo, who once called Cunningham home, is now leading a bold initiative to tackle the crisis head-on.

“I’ve lived in Cunningham for many years,” he said.

“I still attend church services there and regularly meet with community and church elders. This is home to me.”

Mr Vosarogo is leading a community-based effort to restore change. In partnership with the Fiji Police Force and church leaders, the plan includes direct engagement with youths, aiming to steer them away from drugs and crime through sports and mentoring.

A new sports facility is also in the works, with land already identified for a rugby ground, netball and volleyball courts, and a basketball facility. But the real focus, he says, is rebuilding the social fabric.

“Next week, we’ll have speakers visit each stage of Cunningham to talk to youths when it comes to tackling the issues of drugs and crime in these areas.

“The week will end with a community volleyball tournament,” Mr Vosarogo said.

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Drug fight to start from home

Mr Vosarogo stressed that the fight against drugs must start at home.

“Parents, especially fathers, must rise and take ownership.

“You can’t be spending your nights out while your sons go missing and your home is left unprotected.”

The plan also includes special sessions for fathers to discuss responsibility, family values, and ways to protect their households from the threats facing their children.

“This isn’t just a community issue, it’s a family issue,” Mr Vosarogo said.

“Real change begins with us.”

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj