The Ministry of Health and Medical Services tobacco control unit seized a substantial amount of illicit cigarettes from a warehouse after a tip off on Monday.

Health Minister Rosy Akbar revealed this during a press conference at the Health Ministry’s headquarters in Suva yesterday.

“This is just tip of the iceberg, what is still circulated in the market is still to be discovered,” Ms Akbas said.

“Our team is on the final stages of investigation and laying charges against all those who are involved in this illicit trade.

“At this juncture, our main concern is to safe guard the health of all Fijians by all necessary means as mandated in the Tobacco Control Decree and the Fijian Constitution.

Ms Akbar said it was still unknown how the illicit drugs reached Fiji and they would be seeking assistance from police and border control agencies on this regard.

“We may also seek assistance from FICAC to investigate all those who may be involved.”

Ms Akbar said the fines for illicit drug trade ranged from $5000 to $50,000 and imprisonments upon conviction.

She has advised all Fijians to refrain from illicit trade and report any suspected tobacco products being sold in the market illegally.

Edited by Maraia Vula

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