DRUGS are one of the main contributing factors to crimes in Fiji.
This was highlighted by the senior psychologist at the Fiji Corrections Service Elenani Vuru while speaking at the Leadership Fiji’s National Dialogue on Substance Abuse held at the University of the South Pacific yesterday.
She said searches were conducted for admissions, visitors and even the workers at the Fiji Corrections Service to ensure that no drugs were taken into correctional facilities.
“We conduct daily and individual searches to ensure contraband are not present in the facilities,” she said.
“When we talk of security, it is not only the role of the corrections service, but it is also referring to the institution as a whole.”
Ms Vuru said it was important to look at inmates as people.
“We usually identify those within that are mentally challenged or are suffering from mental illness and we are fortunate enough to have a medical team with us.”
