Judge questions storage of meth exhibits in drug case

A Malaysian national, Chan Mooi Sing, has been jointly charged with Mereani Caginisiga and Kalokalo Mataunidilo over the alleged importation and possession of illicit drugs.

Sing, Caginisiga and Mataunidilo appeared before Judge Justice Riyaz Hamza at the High Court in Lautoka yesterday. Sing remains in custody, while bail has been extended for her two co-accused.

The three are accused of offences involving methamphetamine. It is alleged that on January 6, at Nadi International Airport, they imported and possessed 491.6 grams of methamphetamine without lawful authority.

A second count alleges that between December 31, 2025, and January 6, 2026, they engaged in the transfer, transportation and importation of methamphetamine without lawful authority in Nadi.

Caginisiga, a tertiary student from Labasa, faces charges of unlawful importation and unlawful possession of 491.6 grams of methamphetamine.

Mataunidilo is charged with unlawful importation of methamphetamine.

The court heard that the drugs were allegedly transported on a flight from Malaysia, via Singapore, to Nadi International Airport.

Mataunidilo was represented by lawyer Mo Naivalu, while Caginisiga was represented by Una Baleilevuka. Joeli Naivalu appeared for the State.

The prosecution applied to consolidate the matters involving Caginisiga and Mataunidilo. The court granted the application and ordered the filing of consolidated information and disclosures by June 23.

The Malaysian national, who remains in remand, may apply for bail at a later date.

During proceedings, Justice Hamza asked the prosecution where the drugs were being stored.

Mr Naivalu said the exhibits were being held by the Border Police.

Expressing concern about the drugs being kept at a police station, Justice Hamza referred to the case involving Justin Ho and Frederick Epeli, in which drugs allegedly imported by the accused went missing from Namaka Police Station.

The State lawyer assured the court that the exhibits remained intact and were being properly secured.

Justice Hamza granted the prosecution three weeks to file the consolidated matter.