RFMF recovers suspected drug parcels, rifles during Lau patrols

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) naval division has recovered two more suspected drug parcels on Munia Island and two old rifles from an abandoned villa on Katafanga Island during ongoing counter-narcotics operations in the Lau Group.

The discoveries were made within the past 48 hours as RFMF naval personnel continued maritime patrols targeting drug trafficking routes through Fiji's eastern islands.

The military said the two suspected drug parcels were found on Munia Island, while the rifles were discovered during a search of an abandoned villa on nearby Katafanga Island.

All seized items have been secured as evidence and will be handed over to the Fiji Police Force in accordance with established inter-agency procedures.

RFMF personnel departed Vanuabalavu before conducting operations at Cicia and are continuing patrols through Ogea, with Fulaga the next scheduled destination.

The military said the operations form part of a coordinated maritime interdiction strategy targeting narcotics trafficking networks exploiting the remote island corridors of the Lau Group.

The latest discoveries add to a growing number of suspected drug parcels recovered from Fiji's eastern waters in recent weeks, with authorities continuing investigations into their origin.

Meanwhile, the RFMF reaffirmed its support for the Fiji Police Force's investigation into the suspected trafficking of three young women in the Western Division.

Commander RFMF Major General Jone Kalouniwai said protecting vulnerable people remained a priority.

"The protection of Fiji's children is not a peripheral concern — it is a moral and constitutional imperative. We will not stand idle while predators exploit institutional weaknesses to prey upon the innocent."

The RFMF said it would continue working with partner agencies to strengthen maritime security and combat transnational crime.