Scientific analysis confirms 2.223kg meth in Kuruvoli case

A forensic officer has confirmed that 2.223 kilograms of methamphetamine were found in four paper bags linked to a man standing trial for alleged drug importation.

The evidence was heard yesterday during the trial of Lambert Philipe Kuruvoli before Justice Aruna Aluthge at the High Court in Lautoka.

Kuruvoli is charged with unlawful importation and unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

The State alleges that on January 31, 2025, in Nadi, he unlawfully facilitated the importation of 2.223kg of methamphetamine and was found in possession of the same quantity.

Three State witnesses gave evidence today.

The first witness, a Nadi businessman, told the court that Kuruvoli had rented his car wash in Korovuto, Nadi, and paid a $1000 bond.

The businessman said Kuruvoli later failed to pay the weekly rent of $250.

The second witness, Navitalai Tabualevu, a scientific officer with the Fiji Police Force's Forensic Science Services, told the court he had been assigned to analyse four paper bags.

He said the analysis confirmed that the white substance found in the bags was methamphetamine, weighing a total of 2.223kg.

The third witness, detective investigative officer Simione Delai, told the court that Kuruvoli was detained at Nadi International Airport.

Delai said he was informed that Kuruvoli had travelled from Fiji to Singapore, then Malaysia, before returning to Fiji.

The court heard that Kuruvoli told the officer he was a businessman and held business licences.

Kuruvoli is representing himself, while the State is represented by Joeli Naivalu.

The trial continues today.