Six charged after 2.64 tonnes of cocaine seized off Vatia

Six men — four foreign nationals and two from Veisaru in Ba — have been accused following the seizure of 2,630 parcels of cocaine during a major joint drug operation in waters off Vatia on January 15.

Police said the cocaine weighed about 2.64 tonnes and had an estimated street value of A$780 million.

The four foreign nationals, all from Ecuador, are accused of unlawful importation and unlawful possession of illicit drugs, as well as unlawful entry into Fiji under the Immigration Act.

A 26-year-old man from Veisaru is accused of unlawful importation of illicit drugs, two counts of unlawful possession of illicit drugs and one count of serious assault.

A 39-year-old man, also from Veisaru, faces one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs and one count of serious assault.

Police said the arrests followed months of intelligence gathering that began in July last year, when the Serious Organised Crime and Intelligence Department identified a suspected transnational drug trafficking operation originating from South America.

Investigations were carried out in close coordination with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.

Police said intelligence later indicated a shipment was en route in December, travelling from South America through the region via a semi-submersible vessel.

On the night of January 15, officers from the Criminal Investigations Department, the Serious Organised Crime and Intelligence Department and the Western Division Taskforce carried out coordinated raids in Vatia.

Police intercepted a vehicle allegedly transporting bags containing parcels of illicit drugs and arrested two local men. Another team raided a vessel at the Vatia wharf, where the four Ecuadorian nationals were arrested with more bags containing cocaine.

Forensic testing later confirmed all 2,630 parcels contained cocaine.

All six accused are expected to appear at the Tavua Magistrates Court on Thursday, January 22.

Police said investigations are continuing, with several other people believed to be involved. Four local suspects and one foreign national remain in custody as inquiries continue.

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said the operation showed the importance of real-time intelligence sharing between local and international law enforcement agencies.

He said the seizure disrupted a major transnational criminal operation in the region and called on the public to continue supporting police efforts.