Palau officials concerned about escalating drug, theft crisis, call for public help

By Eustoria Marie Borja

Koror, Palau (Island Times) – On Thursday, August 8, 2024, top law enforcement officials in Palau issued an urgent warning about an increase in drug-related crimes and thefts during 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 Prisons Ricky Ngiraked, Special Assistant for Legal Affairs 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 increase in drug and theft cases this year despite a shortage of staff. Ngiraked assured the public that his team remains committed to processing and forwarding cases to the Attorney General’s office for prosecution.

Acting CID Chief John Gabriel revealed that Palau has seen 93 reported cases since January 2024, 75% of which involved theft, pointing to a growing drug problem. Gabriel, a veteran officer with 25 years of experience, stressed the need for additional resources, including an X-ray machine at the borders and more staff. His team, which currently has just six investigators instead of the required 12, handles an average of 15-20 cases per month, mainly thefts linked to the influx of drugs.

Gabriel urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement in the fight against the drug crisis. He also warned of the growing threat of fentanyl, a powerful and deadly drug already present on Guam that could soon reach Palau.

Lt. John Nabeyama echoed the call for improved border security, stressing the need for an x-ray machine and a specialized drug interdiction unit at the customs. Despite strong cooperation with customs officials, Nabeyama noted that the current eight-member Narcotics Unit needs 14 to 15 members to function effectively.

Special Assistant for Legal Affairs Asterio Takashi proposed the introduction of a specific law to address the menace of fentanyl. He also assured the public that three individuals are currently being investigated for drug crimes, despite the department’s staff shortages.

Patrol Chief and PIO Favian Ngiramengior added that law enforcement handles about 500 criminal cases and 800 traffic violations, with 3,000 recorded responses. He also pointed out that 10 officers have resigned in the past four years, highlighting the pressure on the department.

The officials jointly stressed the urgent need for more resources and manpower to effectively address the rising crime rates. They emphasized the importance of government support and public cooperation in addressing the escalating problems of drug trafficking and theft in Palau.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling 488-8477. Anonymous tips are welcome and crucial to combating the growing drug crisis and ensuring the safety of Palau.

Meanwhile, the director of the Bureau of Public Safety, Cary Levitre, has been out of the country since March of this year. The appointed acting directors work on a rotating basis and carry out the administrative functions of the Bureau, according to the memo on the designation of authority.

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