Tailevu tops prison numbers as drug-related convictions remain high

Fiji's prison population contin­ues to rise, with drug-related convictions remaining high across the country.

The iTaukei make up the majority of inmates, with Tailevu Province recording the highest numbers for consecutive years.

Fiji Corrections Service data shows Tailevu had 163 inmates in 2024, up from 156 the previous year.

Other provinces with high num­bers include Ba (143), Cakaudrove (140), Lau (133) and Lomaiviti (115). Drug-related convictions over the past five years have remained per­sistently high, with 353 inmates in 2020 and 266 as of June 2024.

Tailevu Provincial Council chair­man Ratu Semi Matalau said the figures reflect deeper social issues.

"This goes back to where people come from, the families they were raised in, and the communities they live in," he said.

"The solution starts with leader­ship from our chiefs, churches, and families."

Ratu Semi highlighted unemploy­ment, lack of resources, and paren­tal neglect as factors pushing youth toward crime, including drug use.

He also warned against the misuse of traditional reconciliation cer­emonies to excuse serious offences. He said the provincial council was developing community pro­grammes focused on youth empow­erment, women's development, and education, with plans for a Provin­cial Council Village for training and development.

"We're doing everything we can through the care committee to guide our people, especially the young ones, away from crime," he added.

Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifere­imi Vasu acknowledged the con­cerning trend and said the ministry was working closely with provin­cial councils and stakeholders to address the root causes of social ills in iTaukei communities.

Despite the worrying statistics, leaders emphasised that family val­ues, early intervention, and strong­er community support are key to reducing crime.