Nadi businessman denied bail over Vatia cocaine seizure

A 68-year-old Nadi businessman has been denied bail by the Rakiraki Magistrates Court in relation to the alleged importation of cocaine seized at Vatia in January 2026.

Vishwa Nandan, of Nasoso, Nadi, appeared before Magistrate Timoci Qalinauci and was accused of one count of unlawful importation of illicit drugs and one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

The charges were laid following advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding the cocaine seized in Vatia earlier this year.

State prosecutor Viliame Koroinivalu informed the court that full disclosure had been served on the accused.

The prosecution also told the court that Nandan has matters currently pending before the High Court.

During the appearance, Nandan raised no complaints about his treatment while in police custody.

The court was informed that he may make an application under Section 188 of the Criminal Procedure Act before the High Court.

The matter has been transferred to the High Court in Ba, where a bail application is scheduled to be heard on June 23, 2026.

Nandan remains in custody pending the determination of the bail application.