Police storm Kadavu waters, 5 arrested from boatload of suspected marijuana

The Fiji Police Force’s Operation Sasamaki Team deployed to Kadavu intercepted a fiber-glass boat in open waters last night, seizing large bags containing parcels of dried leaves believed to be marijuana.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (A/ACP) Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe confirmed that the interception followed information received about the transportation of illicit substances.

“Arrested were five men, who were taken into custody with the alleged illicit substances,” A/ACP Vusonilawe said.

He added that investigations are now underway.

Meanwhile, police have also charged two men in separate cases of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

A 35-year-old man from Vuci Road, Nausori, was arrested following a search conducted at the Delainavesi road block on September 19.

He was allegedly found with a zip-lock plastic containing white crystals that tested positive for methamphetamine.

He has been charged with one count of Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs and appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court yesterday.

In the second case, a 29-year-old man was allegedly found with methamphetamine in Nabua on September 19. He was also produced in court yesterday.

A/ACP Vusonilawe commended the role of the public in providing information that led to these arrests.

“As reiterated by the Commissioner, our focus on green and white drugs remains the same. We encourage members of the public to continue sharing information through Crimestoppers on 919 or directly to your Divisional Police Commanders, or to me on 9904 905,” he said.

Operation Sasamaki remains ongoing across all five policing divisions.