The Vatia cocaine case intensified today with the disclosure of serious allegations against one of the defendants, Sunia Kobululevu. He has been charged with conspiracy and unlawful possession of illicit drugs after he issued a threatening video on social media, promising violence against police officers if his seized cocaine was not returned to him.
Kobululevu is one of five additional individuals who have been further remanded in custody by the Rakiraki Magistrates Court in relation to a significant drug bust involving the seizure of 2.6 tonnes of cocaine. Alongside his drug-related charges, Kobululevu also faces criminal intimidation counts due to his alarming threats made online.
The accused group, which includes Norman Fisher, Manasa Saladrau, Trevis Cheer, and Anaseini Rokolati, is believed to have conspired to transport and store an astonishing 2.6445 tonnes of cocaine. The case’s legal proceedings are gaining momentum, as State lawyer John Rabuku confirmed that the first phase of disclosures has been partially filed. Magistrate Timoci Qalinauci has remanded the accused individuals in custody and transferred the case to the High Court in Ba, where it is set to be addressed alongside 11 other defendants on February 27.
This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region and underscores the serious implications of drug-related crimes. Authorities remain vigilant as they work to address these challenges within the community.