In response to escalating harm from drug crime, Tonga's Police Ministry has asked for help from the Pacific Islands Forum and local community leaders to write a new five-year policy on illicit drugs like methamphetamine.
A two-day meeting in Nuku'alofa last week followed earlier consultations in March this year, and police say it's clear there is a need for a significant shift from a previous reactive approach towards more prevention and rehabilitation.
Police Superintendent Ashley Fua spoke to RNZI after the meeting about the new National Policy on Illicit Drugs and how the police approach is likely to change.
Fua said the Forum Secretariat provided the technical assistance for the consultation and drafting of the policy.
He said they had a very good turnout and response from stakeholders.
“We have consulted quite widely within government and outside of the government. We have included church leaders. We recognize that church leaders are a key stakeholder. Civil societies, community groups, youth and even schools.”
Fua said the message coming out at the consultations is that everyone wants to feel safe and they want people to have a second chance at life.
Photo: Tonga Police Caption: Illicit Drugs and firearms seized by police in Tonga.
Photo: Tonga Police Caption: Illicit Drugs and firearms seized by police in Tonga.