Shonal Sharma, the General Manager of a mechanical company, has been remanded in custody following his appearance at the Suva Magistrates Court. The 40-year-old faces serious charges of importing illicit drugs, specifically one count of unlawful importation. Sharma is scheduled to return to court on Friday for a formal bail application.
During the initial hearing, Prosecutor Eoghn Samisoni opposed the granting of bail, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The case centers on a shipment that allegedly arrived in Fiji from Brazil on October 27, 2025. The package, initially labeled as a “smoke machine,” raised suspicions due to its contents. When inspected, authorities discovered a concealed device containing approximately 640 grams of a white powdered substance, which has been identified as cocaine.
The arrest of Sharma aligns with ongoing efforts by Fijian law enforcement, including the Fiji Police Force and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, to combat the growing problem of drug trafficking in the region. Recent high-profile arrests highlight the seriousness of this issue and reflect a broader strategy to dismantle drug networks.
As investigations continue, there is hope that these proactive measures will diminish the instances of drug-related offenses and contribute to a safer community for all residents in Fiji. The upcoming bail hearing will further determine the course of Sharma’s case as authorities remain committed to public safety and integrity in their operations.