Lautoka businessman denied bail in major drug case

A Lautoka businessman accused of allegedly facilitating the export of more than 39 kilograms of cocaine was denied bail by the Nadi Magistrate Court today.

Shaneil Suresh Autar, 40, appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.

He is charged with one count of unlawful possession and supply of an illicit drug and one count of unlawful exportation of an illicit drug.

The court heard that the accused allegedly engaged in the transfer, transport, and supply of more than 39 kilograms of illicit drugs, and facilitated the export of 34 parcels of drugs weighing over 39 kilograms.

The accused understood the charges when read to him in court.

The case stems from allegations dating back to 2019 but was revived following renewed investigations, marking a significant development in a long-running drug probe.

Autar was arrested and re-charged on December 20.

The accused was represented by Mark Anthony of Millbrook Hills Law Partners, while the State prosecution was represented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) senior legal officer, Joeli Nasa.

Mr Nasa told the court that the State sought to have the matter transferred to the High Court.

The State prosecution proposed strict bail conditions including a $2,000 cash bail, two sureties, the surrender of travel documents, restrictions on accessing wharfs and airports, fortnightly reporting to the Lautoka Police Station, and a travel ban on leaving Viti Levu.

The defence did not oppose these terms. However, Magistrate Savou ruled that bail be denied due to the seriousness of the alleged offense and the large quantity of illicit drugs involved.

He further stated that the complexity of the matter warranted its transfer to the High Court.

The accused has been remanded in custody at the Natabua Remand Centre and has been advised that he has 28 days to appeal the court’s decision. The case has been adjourned to January 5, 2026 for mention at the High Court in Lautoka.