Ten more people, suspected of cultivating marijuana in Kadavu, have been arrested by Police.

The arrest follows a two-week drug raid on the island by the Force’s drug unit.

The operation is called “Operation Cavuraka”.

The suspects were brought over to Suva on Thursday night.

Six were produced in court while the other four remain in custody.

It is illegal to cultivate, smoke, or sell marijuana in Fiji.

“The operation is another phase of my intent to eradicate the cultivation, trade and use of the illicit substances considering its multiple negative consequences,” Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho said.

“People have been talking about legalising marijuana, however people must not lose sight of the fact that firstly it is illegal and more importantly the devastating effects it has on everyone it comes into contact with.

“What we are also targeting are those who are selling these drugs and benefitting from it while others suffer.

“While we have major operations such as this happening, my officer’s focus on drugs is ongoing.”

Brigadier-General Qiliho said two people were taken into custody on Friday on two separate cases where substances believed to be marijuana were found in their possession.

“The first report was in Tavua where my officers searched the home of a 31-year-old driver and found a carton containing plants believed to be marijuana under a bed,” Brigadier-General Qiliho said.

“In the second operation carried out by my officers, a 47-year-old farmer of Delaivalelevu is in custody after a search conducted in his truck at the Narain Jetty turned up plastic bags containing substances believed to be marijuana.

“The raid was conducted yesterday morning.

“We continue to receive information from members of the public regarding those involved in this trade.

“Combined with our information gathering, we are zeroing in, on those involved.

“Let us think about our future generation and rid society of this illegal trade.”