Fiji Navy intensifies Lau drug operation

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division is maintaining an increased presence in the Lau Group as joint maritime operations continue to remove suspected illicit drugs from communities and strengthen surveillance across Fiji's southern waters.

Fiji Navy Commander Captain Timoci Natuva said personnel would remain in the Lau Group for the next few days as part of a multi-agency operation involving the Fiji Police Force, Fiji Customs, Navy divers and the Hydrography Department.

Captain (Navy) Natuva said authorities had yet to determine the origin or intended destination of the drugs that have washed ashore in recent weeks. However, the immediate priority was to remove them from communities and gather intelligence.

"The aim of our operation is to remove the drugs from the communities, raise awareness and gather any information residents may have on the ground," he said.

He said tackling maritime drug trafficking required a coordinated response involving security agencies and coastal communities.

"It requires a coordinated effort between various maritime security agencies and also working with the communities."

Captain Natuva acknowledged concerns over the continued discovery of drugs across the islands but said agencies were responding with the resources currently available.

He said the Navy's newly acquired patrol boats would significantly improve its ability to monitor Fiji's vast maritime borders.

The vessels are faster, require smaller crews, can operate in shallow waters and are equipped with advanced navigation systems, allowing quicker responses to incidents ranging from drug interdiction to search and rescue operations.

Captain Natuva said recent patrols in Lau focused on verifying visiting yachts alongside Fiji Customs and Ministry of Fisheries officers while strengthening the Navy's presence in remote waters.

He also welcomed ongoing support from international partners, including Australia, Japan and the United States, saying the assistance had strengthened Fiji's maritime surveillance capability.

Delivering a warning to those using Fiji's waters for drug trafficking, Captain Natuva said security agencies would remain committed to disrupting illegal activity.

"We will continue to work with our partners to deter this," he said.