Police seize $47m worth of marijuana in North

A major police operation targeting drug cultivation in the Northern Division has resulted in the destruction of nearly 47,400 marijuana plants worth an estimated $47.39 million, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the region.

The figures were revealed in a Fiji Police Force report presented to district representatives during the Cakaudrove Provincial Council meeting, outlining the results of a large-scale crackdown on known cultivation hotspots.

According to the report, police uprooted and destroyed 47,397 marijuana plants through four coordinated operations.

The first operation resulted in the seizure and destruction of 13,007 plants, followed by 20,226 plants in the second phase — the largest single haul of the campaign.

In the third operation, 1,332 plants were uprooted, while a further 12,832 plants were seized during the fourth phase.

The operations also led to 77 arrests, with police targeting both cultivation sites and transportation routes.

A total of 23 suspects were arrested during farm raids, while 54 others were intercepted at police roadblocks.

Items seized at roadblocks included 44 sachets of dried marijuana leaves, 54 portions of loose dried leaves, 17 live rounds of ammunition and $4,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds of crime.

Focus on 'Golden Triangle'

The report identified Cakaudrove's so-called "Golden Triangle" as a key focus of police operations.

The area spans the districts of Tunuloa, Natewa, Cakaudrove Vanua, Navatu and Naweni, which authorities have identified as major marijuana cultivation zones.

Police also reported progress in tackling other illicit drugs.

In Labasa, four people were arrested in connection with methamphetamine-related offences. Three have already been charged, while one case remains pending laboratory analysis.

The Fiji Police Force said operations remain ongoing, with officers continuing targeted sweeps deeper into the upper Golden Triangle.

Current operations are focused on Salia Village, Nailou, Manuasi, Devon Kanakana and parts of Navonu as authorities seek to further disrupt the drug trade in the North.