A joint operation conducted by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (FRCS) and the Fiji Police Force has resulted in the arrest of three individuals in Nadi suspected of importing commercial quantity of the illicit drug methamphetamine.

The joint controlled delivery from the United States of America (USA) led to the seizure of a consignment where methamphetamine was allegedly discovered concealed in various items.

The three accused persons from Lautoka were charged with unlawful importation of illicit drugs and unlawful possession of illicit drugs and have appeared at the Nadi Magistrates Court.

FRCS Acting Chief Executive Officer Ms. Fay Yee said the vigilance and capabilities of all stakeholders at our borders is indicative of our commitment to keeping illicit substances from reaching our communities.

“By preventing trafficking of illegal drugs, we are protecting our communities against devastating social impact, saving lives, reducing drug-associated criminal activities and health problems.”

“We know that organised criminal groups are very agile in adapting their smuggling efforts to try and take advantage of any situation. However, our combined capabilities make it difficult for those wanting to smuggle these illicit substances and the success of this controlled operation is a testament of that,” Ms. Yee stated.

FRCS is collaborating closely with all border enforcement agencies in the fight against drug trafficking.

Fiji’s Commissioner of Police Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho said the level of co-operation needed to disrupt criminal networks is actively being pursued by law enforcement stakeholders to ensure relevancy in the protection of Fiji’s borders.

“The success of the joint operation highlights once again the commitment of Fiji’s law enforcement agencies in pursuing all those involved in the illegal drug activity be it the manufacturing, importation or sale of the illicit substance.”

“The sharing of intelligence and investigation capabilities with law enforcement agencies is enhancing our abilities to disrupt the supply chains of the illicit drug trade, making our communities safer from the immense harm of the illegal trade.”

A stern warning is issued to the drug traffickers to desist as they will face prosecution under the law.

The three accused persons have been remanded in custody and due to next appear in court on the 30th of November 2021.

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