Tonga asks for community help to turn around drug problem

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 this 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 Jenny Meyer after the meeting about the new National Policy on Illicit Drugs and how the police approach is likely to change.