The Fiji Police Force is ramping up its inquiry following a significant drug operation at Vatia Wharf in Tavua on January 16, which has raised alarms about a potential connection to a considerable cocaine seizure in French Polynesia on the same day. The Fiji operation culminated in the arrest of four South American nationals and the seizure of a substantial amount of what authorities believe to be cocaine.
On that same day, French authorities managed to intercept a vessel within their maritime zone, which was laden with several tonnes of suspected cocaine. This coincidence has prompted officials in Fiji to investigate possible links between the two cases.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, stated that the Fiji Police Force is collaborating with regional and international partners to examine potential transnational criminal connections. Information is being shared through the Pacific Transnational Crime Network (PTCN) as part of a concerted effort to combat this escalating issue.
“We are closely monitoring developments, assessing threats across the Pacific, and ensuring no gaps are left in our regional cooperation,” ACP Waqa remarked, underlining the importance of vigilance in light of this emerging threat.
The investigation raises critical questions about whether the drugs discovered in Fiji and those found in French Polynesia might belong to the same smuggling operation. There are also inquiries into sophisticated methods that might have been used to transport narcotics into Fiji, including the possibility of submersibles. It remains unclear whether the arrested individuals had any maritime experience or if local contacts aided these drug trafficking activities.
ACP Waqa highlighted the persistent danger posed by organized crime syndicates operating across the Pacific, reiterating that authorities are treating this situation with the utmost seriousness. The recent dual seizures serve as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of trans-Pacific drug trafficking, as experts warn that Fiji’s ports may become more attractive to criminal networks employing advanced smuggling techniques.
In light of this ongoing situation, it is crucial for authorities to strengthen international cooperation and enhance surveillance capabilities to shield Fiji from the dangers of drug trafficking while safeguarding the interests of its citizens.