Rabuka Queries Fiji’s Largest Drug Bust Update

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday revealed that he has not received the investigation report of Fiji’s largest drug bust of four tonnes of methamphetamine seized in Nadi last year.

Speaking at the World Customs Day celebration in Suva yesterday, Mr Rabuka wondered what would have happened if authorities or police were not tipped about the drugs.

That major drug bust in Nadi on January last year saw the discovery of more than four tonnes of methamphetamine in two separate locations.

“What would have happened if the second shipment was not intercepted and gotten through?” Mr Rabuka asked.

“But the fact that we managed to find them, the catch probably discouraged other shipment from coming in.

“Whoever was involved in tipping the police, we have not received the investigation results whether it was the criminals or officials we are investigating.

“I have not received any reports to indicate whether it was laxity in our border control or customs or if it infiltrated our borders through avenues that were not under the customs watch.

“There has been nothing as of yet from the police.”

Speaking to close to a hundred custom officers at the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) he said it was a good day to reflect on their duty to the nation.

“It is a good day to reflect on how much the nation relies on you to be alert, attentive,” Mr Rabuka said.

“One sleeping guard can cause the surrender of the whole army,” he said.

“The role of customs in national security cannot be overstated. In this profession, we ask, who let the ships in?”

“Today we salute the dedication and bravery of customs officers that stand at the first line of defense ensuring the safety and well-being of our nation.”

He encouraged the officers to be diligent in carrying out their duties and to be alert and vigilant always.

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