The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji has voiced significant concerns over the increasing usage of the Wallis and Futuna route by drug traffickers and yachts targeting Fiji’s waters. This development has emerged following the closure of alternative routes employed by Australia and New Zealand, resulting in a marked rise in illegal drug transportation through this maritime passage.
At a recent Lau Provincial Council meeting in Suva, Permanent Secretary Aliki Salusalu urged community leaders to enhance vigilance and report any suspicious yacht activities. He highlighted that yachts originating from locations such as Tonga, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa are exploiting the lack of regulatory oversight in this newly utilized route. Salusalu clarified that yachts flying the Fiji flag have undergone proper clearance, while those without it merit closer examination.
Residents are encouraged to engage actively in the monitoring process and report unusual activities by contacting the Maritime Coordination Centre at the designated hotline, 1539. This initiative emphasizes the vital role of community involvement in strengthening border security and deterring illegal operations.
The context of Fiji’s border security challenges is also marked by inadequate vessel tracking regulations, with around 700 to 800 yachts visiting Fiji annually, complicating efforts to monitor maritime activities effectively. Recent drug seizures, such as the substantial 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine discovered in Nadi, highlight the extent to which criminal organizations can exploit existing vulnerabilities. In total, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service has documented 47 drug-related incidents over the past five years, showcasing an urgent need for enhanced border enforcement measures.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the call for increased community engagement and a collaborative approach to maritime security offers hope. The commitment from both authorities and local communities is essential in ensuring Fiji remains a safe destination for both tourists and legitimate enterprises. With collective efforts in place, there is potential for significantly bolstering Fiji’s border security and safeguarding the integrity of its waters.