Tourists will understand joint operations, says Gavoka

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka says the escalating drug crackdown will not hurt Fiji’s tourism industry because the world understands when a country needs to deal with a serious problem.

“It’s getting out of control and we need to get on top of it,” Mr Gavoka said yesterday, when asked by this masthead whether the increased military and Police presence on Fiji’s streets could dampen tourist confidence.

“I’m convinced, I’m sure that the overseas markets understand what the challenges are and what a country needs to do to arrest its problem with drugs.”

Mr Gavoka said he had full confidence in the joint operations between the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).

“I have every confidence that the military and Police will get results in respect of the law, of our rights as a people.”

His comments come as joint drug operations have intensified nationwide, with snap checkpoints, search operations and surge activities rolled out across all divisions including urban centres, rural communities and maritime zones.

The crackdown follows an agreement reached in January between RFMF Commander Major-General Jone Kalouniwai and Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to strengthen the national response to the drug trade.

Tourism is one of Fiji’s most vital industries, contributing around 40 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Any perception of instability or danger can directly impact visitor numbers and the livelihoods of thousands of Fijians depending on the sector.

Mr Gavoka, who also holds the Civil Aviation portfolio, indicated that Government had no intention of easing the pressure on drug networks, saying action was necessary and unavoidable.