By Eustoria Marie Borja
Koror, Palau (Island Times) – On Thursday, August 8, 2024, top law enforcement officials in Palau issued an urgent warning about a surge in drug-related crimes and thefts during a broadcast of Eco Paradise FM’s “MOJ Family Hour.” The talk show, hosted at the EPFM studio, featured key figures from Palau’s law enforcement community, including Chief of Corrections Ricky Ngiraked, Special Assistant on Legal Matters Asterio Takashi, Lieutenant John Nabeyama of the Transnational Crime Unit, Acting Chief of CID John Gabriel, and Chief of Patrol and Public Information Officer Favian Ngiramengior.
Chief of Corrections Ricky Ngiraked highlighted the alarming rise in drug cases and thefts this year, despite a shortage of personnel. Ngiraked assured the public that his team remains committed to processing cases and forwarding them to the Attorney General’s office for prosecution.
Acting Chief of CID John Gabriel revealed that Palau has seen 93 reported cases since January 2024, with 75% involving theft—signaling a growing drug problem. Gabriel, a veteran officer with 25 years of experience, emphasized the need for additional resources, including an X-ray machine at the borders and more personnel. His team, currently operating with only six investigators instead of the required 12, handles an average of 15–20 cases a month, mostly thefts linked to the influx of drugs.
Gabriel urged the public to collaborate with law enforcement in combating the drug crisis. He also warned of the increasing threat of fentanyl, a potent and deadly drug already present in Guam, which could soon reach Palau.
Lieutenant John Nabeyama echoed the call for enhanced border security, stressing the need for an X-ray machine and a specialized drug interdiction unit at customs. Despite strong collaboration with customs officials, Nabeyama noted that the current Narcotics Unit, staffed with eight members, requires 14 to 15 to function effectively.
Special Assistant on Legal Matters Asterio Takashi proposed introducing a specific law to address the threat of fentanyl. He also reassured the public that three individuals are currently under investigation for drug crimes, despite the department’s staffing challenges.
Chief of Patrol and PIO Favian Ngiramengior added that law enforcement is managing approximately 500 criminal cases and 800 traffic violations, with 3,000 responses logged. He also pointed out that 10 officers have resigned in the past four years, highlighting the strain on the department.
The officials collectively emphasized the urgent need for more resources and manpower to address the rising crime rates effectively. They stressed the importance of government support and public cooperation in tackling the escalating issues of drug trafficking and theft in Palau.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities by calling 488-8477. Anonymous tips are welcome and crucial to combatting the growing drug crisis and ensuring the safety of Palau.
Meanwhile, Bureau of Public Safety Director Cary Levitre has been out of the country since March of this year, and the appointed acting directors operate on a rotational basis, handling the Bureau’s administrative tasks per the designation of authority memo.