Fiji rules out state of emergency as security forces ramp up drug crackdown

The Fijian government says there is "no need" to declare a state of emergency that would give the military and police special powers in response to the drug crisis.

Last week, Prime Minister Rabuka told reporters that his government was considering the move to assist "joint operations" by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Fiji Police Force.

The security forces have kicked off a nationwide operation targeting drug and gang-related activities. It crackdown comes following the death of a wellknown "drug lord" while he was in military custody.

The RFMF says it is providing support under national law, with the Fiji Police Force leading all law enforcement operations.

In a statement on Monday, the government said that, following a meeting of the National Security Council - which is headed by Rabuka himself - the military and police had advised against a state of emergency "at this stage".

The statement said the Council reviewed a range of national security matters, including international developments, Fiji's fuel supply position, economic and financial conditions, contingency planning, and the current law and order situation.

"There is no recommendation for a state of emergency, and the situation remains under control," the government said.

It assured the public that there was no cause for alarm.

"The meeting forms part of the Council's routine role to assess risks, coordinate preparedness, and ensure Fiji is ready to respond to any potential impacts from global or regional developments."

The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) said plans to declare a state of emergency "is an extraordinary and exceptional measure" and should be "a last resort".

"It should not be used as a precautionary or political measure, but must instead be based on clear, demonstrable necessity and credible evidence that existing legal, defence and institutional frameworks are insufficient to address the threat and danger," the FHRADC said.