From 2017 to 2021, over 5000 cases of drug-related crimes were reported by the Fiji Police Force.

This was revealed in a presentation made by Assistant Superintendent of Police Maria Serukalou during the Fiji Police Force Outreach Meeting with the Korean Community.

ASP Serukalou said in 2017, 750 cases were recorded while 1124 cases were recorded in 2018.

She said this further increased in 2019 when 1273 cases were recorded and yet another 1501 cases in 2020.

She revealed that there was a slight drop in 2021 with 1032 drug-related cases recorded by the force.

“Major seizures were done in Denarau, Nadi Airport and the Post office,” she said.

“Methods of concealment included candles, personal belongings, chocolate boxes, false knapsack bags, tricycles, toys, quad bike tyres, a rice cooker, car batteries, vehicle spare parts, video decks, creams and peanut butter bottles.”

She added that in 2020 alone, 100 cases were related to the discovery of methamphetamine.

“Fiji is a transshipment hub for hard drugs and these cases are identified through domestic law enforcement agencies coordination.”

ASP Serukalou also revealed that in terms of transnational crime cases, there were five cases of
unlawful importation of illicit drugs.

Money Laundering

ASP Serukalou revealed that in 2018, there were 549 cases of money laundering recorded under transnational crime cases.

“Most transnational cases involve credit cards, black money scams, advance fraud, visa scams, remitting money overseas, social media scams and the possession of proceeds of crime.”

She added that the Fiji Risk Assessment National Survey indicated that a total of $113million was laundered annually.
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