Peceli Naviticoko 
The smuggling of contraband – including marijuana, methamphetamine, and mobile phones – by inmates’ families continues to undermine operations at the Fiji Corrections Service.
Director of Training and Rehabilitation Isireli Dausiga says family support must focus on rehabilitation rather than actions that sabotage the system.
He warns that while reintegration efforts are progressing, the behavior of some relatives remains a serious challenge.
“This trend is becoming a constraint to our operations. There are different methods of smuggling contraband, such as marijuana, methamphetamine, and mobile phones. Some items are thrown over facility fences, others are concealed in footwear, even in baby diapers. These include phones, suki, cigarettes, drugs and other prohibited items that disrupt our daily operations across the 15 correctional facilities.”
Dausiga stresses that while the FCS conducts community awareness, the final responsibility lies with families.
He adds that smuggling often results in extra penalties for inmates, including extended sentences and lost rehabilitation opportunities.
The FCS, which operates 15 facilities nationwide, continues to advocate for stronger community partnerships through the Yellow Ribbon Project.
Authorities emphasize that genuine family support – through encouragement and lawful conduct – is crucial to reducing reoffending and helping inmates return to society as productive citizens.
