Four Primary School Students Allegedly Smoke Marijuana at Suva Athletics Meet

In a concerning incident at an athletics meet in Suva yesterday, four primary school students were referred to the police for allegedly smoking marijuana. The students, three boys from Year 8 and one from Year 7, were discovered with smoking apparatuses in a washroom and handed over to security before law enforcement arrived. The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and guardians to maintain open dialogues with their children about the dangers of illicit drugs to prevent such occurrences.

Incident Overview

Four primary school students were caught engaging in illicit drug use during an athletics meet held in Suva. The Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, provided details about the incident, emphasizing the swift response by security personnel.

Key Details:

• Location: Athletics meet in Suva
• Date: Yesterday
• Students Involved: Three boys from Year 8 and one from Year 7
• Discovery: Smoking apparatuses found in a washroom
• Action Taken: Students handed over to security, then referred to police

The prompt action by security ensured that the situation was handled efficiently, preventing further complications.

Police Response and Parental Involvement

The Fiji Police Force acted promptly upon being notified of the incident. According to Assistant Commissioner Livai Driu, the students were immediately referred to the police after being found with the smoking devices. The police then took necessary steps to involve the students’ parents.

Actions Taken:

• Notification: Parents of the involved students were informed about the incident.
• Counseling: The students received counseling to understand the consequences of their actions.
• Preventive Measures: Emphasis on the importance of parental guidance in preventing drug use among children.

Community and Preventive Efforts

The Fiji Police Force is taking this incident as a critical reminder of the ongoing battle against youth drug use. They are calling on parents and guardians to take proactive steps in educating their children about the dangers associated with illicit drugs.

Recommendations for Parents:

• Open Communication: Regularly talk to children about the risks of drug use.
• Education: Provide accurate information about the harmful effects of marijuana.
• Monitoring: Keep an eye on children’s activities and social interactions.
• Support Systems: Encourage children to seek help if they are feeling pressured or curious about drugs.

By fostering an environment of trust and openness, parents can significantly reduce the likelihood of their children engaging in harmful behaviors.

The Role of Schools and Community Programs

Schools and community organizations play a pivotal role in preventing drug use among young students. Implementing comprehensive educational programs and support systems can help address the root causes of such behavior.

Effective Strategies:

• Educational Workshops: Conduct sessions that inform students about the dangers of drug use.
• Counseling Services: Provide access to counselors who can support students in need.
• After-School Activities: Engage students in extracurricular activities to keep them occupied and reduce the temptation to use drugs.
• Community Engagement: Involve local leaders and organizations in promoting a drug-free lifestyle.

These measures can create a supportive network that deters students from experimenting with drugs and helps them make informed decisions.

Implications for Policy and Law Enforcement

This incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of drug laws and better policies aimed at protecting young students. Law enforcement agencies must work closely with educational institutions and community organizations to create a safer environment for children.

Policy Recommendations:

• Enhanced Surveillance: Increase monitoring at school events to prevent drug-related activities.
• Stricter Penalties: Implement tougher consequences for students caught using or possessing drugs.
• Collaborative Efforts: Foster partnerships between police, schools, and community groups to address the issue comprehensively.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch initiatives that raise awareness about the dangers of drug use among youth.

By adopting a multi-faceted approach, policymakers can effectively tackle the issue of youth drug use and ensure the safety and well-being of students.