Street Talk: How are drugs becoming a social problem in your community?

By Anetone Sagaga • 18 March 2024, 8:00PM

There has been a notable increase in drug-related cases before the courts. Samoa Observer's photojournalist Anetone Sagaga spoke to the members of the public about their thoughts on this issue.

Fono Solofa, 69 , Toamua

"Meth is something that should have never existed in our beautiful island home in the first place and whatever is generated from this operation is dirty money. To my knowledge, the root of the problem seems to start from someone who is within the government and operates it from the inside. There is a huge possibility that this is true because we've seen certain changes in behaviour amongst our people, especially the young. Drugs have a huge impact on the society of Samoa and it is heart breaking."

Joe Eti, 33 , Faleula

"Yes, there is a huge outbreak of meth and marijuana amongst our people and it is disheartening seeing the young generation getting exposed to such products that are destroying their future. I am not aware of what the rise is but I advise people to stay away from such habits, love your family and even more love Jesus.“

Seu Tavita, 36 , Salelavalu

“From my understanding, it seems that the majority of Samoans have moved on from marijuana and have now used meth as a daily drug. It is an unfortunate situation we have now encountered and I believe that it falls on those who work within our public service, just some, not all of them. Sometimes police are involved in such deals and it is a bad example set for our people. The problem is from up top.”

Victoria Stowers, 39 , Leauva’a

“This sort of situation has started so many problems within our family households, our new generation has become very rebellious leading to the rise of disputes and drama within families. The consumption of such products has been the introduction of vices within our homes, it is sad. The dawn of drugs starts from our Government and whoever is responsible of importing it”

Togiailua Mafi, 61 , Saina

“I know some families have relied on the selling to make ends meet but it goes to show how expensive the cost of living is. People should know that using drugs won’t make life any easier, just don’t get involved in such activity. The root I’d say comes from the up top, meaning those who overlook these matters such as officials and the police. I know some police also participate in such activity and it is setting a bad example for our people and nation.”

Alo Ana Fidow , 57 Vaitele Fou

"It's extremely sad and unfortunate because it does concern me as a mother how the next generation of this nation is exposed to such activities that destroy their life. Meth mostly has been in Samoa for a long time and it's quite impossible trying to get rid of it, what boggles the mind is how drugs are successfully smuggled into our borders, it's just sad. The other thing is, those who have been appointed to look into this matter have become users themselves of meth, there's no hiding in that because it's quite obvious. I believe operations come from within the government officials and they take full responsibility."