Police widen probe into Tavua drug seizure

Investigations into the seizure of more than 100 sacks of a white substance believed to be cocaine at Vatia Wharf in Tavua last Friday have widened, amid international reports that a narco-submarine may have been used to transport the drugs.

Australian media outlet Daily Mail reported that international drug cartels have increasingly invested in narco-submarines, costing more than $2 million each, to transport drugs across long distances.

The report said the vessels are designed to evade detection and are capable of carrying several tonnes of illicit drugs, often operated by small crews over extended periods at sea.

Last Friday, a joint operation between the Fiji Police Force and the Australian Federal Police led to the interception of a vessel at Vatia Wharf.

Police seized more than 100 sacks containing parcels believed to be cocaine, estimated to be worth more than $3 billion, and arrested six men — four Ecuadorian nationals and two locals.

Reliable sources confirmed yesterday that the seized substance has been transferred to the Fiji Police Forensics Laboratory in Nasova for further analysis.

It is understood the substance was transported to Suva last Saturday under police escort after preliminary testing was carried out at the Tavua wharf.

The Fiji Sun was also reliably informed that the substance was initially secured at the Lautoka Police Station before being moved to Suva.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that the six men arrested in connection with the seizure remain in police custody.

She said further information would be released once investigations are completed.