Lau leaders demand action as suspected drug packages multiply

Traditional leaders in Lau are calling for stronger maritime patrols and border monitoring after another 35 suspicious parcels were found floating near Vanuabalavu, adding to growing concerns about drugs reaching remote island communities.

The latest discovery brings the number of suspicious parcels recovered in the Lau Group to 62, with police confirming that 27 parcels recovered earlier have already been sent to the Fiji Police Forensics Laboratory in Suva for analysis.

Police officers from the Criminal Investigations Department and Forensics Unit have been deployed alongside the Republic of Fiji Navy to conduct further enquiries and recover the additional 35 parcels found near Munia Island, Vanuabalavu, last Thursday afternoon.

Lau provincial representative Ratu Raivalita said the latest discovery had heightened concerns among traditional leaders, who have repeatedly raised alarm about drug trafficking in the province.

"Just days ago, Turaga Tui Nayau was speaking about drugs in Lau, and now another 35 packages have been found in Vanuabalavu," he said.

Ratu Raivalita questioned the apparent lack of maritime patrols in the area and urged authorities to strengthen surveillance and monitoring efforts across Fiji's waters.

He said island communities remained vulnerable to suspicious packages and contraband washing ashore because of the vast maritime area surrounding the Lau Group.

The discovery has renewed scrutiny on efforts to secure Fiji's maritime borders as authorities continue to investigate a growing number of suspected drug-related finds in coastal areas.

Police acknowledged the role of community leaders in reporting the discoveries, saying the initial parcels were reported by the turaga ni koro before being handed over to Vanuabalavu Police.

The latest discovery was first revealed by Ratu Raivalita, who said the packages were found on Wednesday and later handed to police for investigation.

Responding to concerns raised by Lau leaders, Republic of Fiji Navy Commander Commodore Timoci Natuva said the Navy was not informed of the latest discovery until late Thursday evening.

Police said efforts were now focused on locating and recovering every suspicious parcel for forensic testing as investigators worked to determine the contents, origin and intended destination of the packages.

The discoveries follow a series of similar incidents around the country. In a recent case, a sealed plastic package containing a white substance found in Kadavu later tested positive for cocaine.

The Fiji Police Force said it continued to work closely with local and regional law enforcement agencies as investigations progressed.

Members of coastal communities have been urged to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious packages to police by calling 1681.

Authorities have also warned the public not to handle or open any parcels found along shorelines.