35 more suspected drug packages found in Lau waters

Fresh concerns have emerged over the movement of illicit drugs through the Lau Group after another 35 packages of suspected drugs were discovered near Vanuabalavu this week.

Initial reports indicate that the packages were found near Mabula village in Cicia. Vanuabalavu police were called in to retrieve the packages.

The discovery was revealed by Ratu Raivalita Uluilakeba, who said the packages were found on Wednesday and have since been handed over to police for investigation.

The latest find comes just weeks after traditional leaders in Lau raised alarm over the growing number of drug packages washing ashore across the province.

Ratu Raivalita said concerns about drug trafficking in Lau had been repeatedly highlighted, including by the Turaga Tui Nayau, but little action had been seen on the ground.

“Just days ago, the Turaga Tui Nayau was frequently speaking about the drugs in Lau, and now another 35 packs have been found in Vanuabalavu,” he said.

He questioned the absence of maritime patrols in the area and called on authorities to strengthen surveillance within Fiji’s waters. Responding to the concerns, Republic of Fiji Navy Commodore Timoci Natuva said the Navy had not received information about the latest discovery until late yesterday evening.

Commodore Natuva yesterday said a planned deployment had been delayed due to two search and rescue operations conducted during the week.

“Our team did not receive any information about the find until late this evening, nor did we receive a request,” he said.

“We will deploy in the next few days and we are working with police on their priorities so we can act on them.”

The latest discovery follows a series of significant drug finds across the Lau Group in recent weeks. Earlier this month, 15 packages of suspected drugs were recovered in Ogea, while another 26 packages were found on Komo Island.

Police continues urging members of the public not to handle suspicious packages and to immediately report any discoveries to authorities.

Police investigations into the latest discoveries are continuing.