Five Tons Marijuana Seized, White Drugs Rising: Police

A detailed update on Operation Sasamaki, the nationwide drug crackdown, has so far seized nearly five tons of marijuana across all five divisions.

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu revealed that between March 1 and May 31, 2025, marijuana remained the most commonly seized drug, though cases of methamphetamine known locally as "white drugs" are also rising across the country.

"We've seen a slight decrease in the number of marijuana-related arrests," Mr Tudravu said.

But, the police mop-up operations and community policing efforts are continuing to target known hotspots.

Most arrests during the operation were tied to unlawful possession and cultivation of illicit drugs. There were 143 total drug related cases recorded in May alone, a 13 per cent increase compared to the previous period. Of those, 123 involved possession, 17 cultivation, and three related to importation or supply.

Mr Tudravu also addressed the troubling involvement of law enforcement officers in drug-related activities.

Five police officers were charged in connection with crimes such as unlawful drug possession, importation, and supply, as well as criminal intimidation, forgery, and dishonesty offences.

"The actions of a few do not reflect our values," Mr Tudravu said.

"We are committed to rooting out corruption and restoring integrity within the force."

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.fj