The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji has recently expressed concerns regarding the rising use of the Wallis and Futuna route by drug peddlers and yachts to access Fiji’s waters. This trend follows the closure of alternative routes by Australia and New Zealand, leading to a significant increase in the exploitation of this maritime pass for illegal drug transport.
Permanent Secretary Aliki Salusalu informed attendees at the Lau Provincial Council meeting in Suva that the yachts, often originating from destinations such as Tonga, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa, are taking advantage of the lack of oversight on the new route. Salusalu stressed the importance of community collaboration in safeguarding Fiji’s borders, urging village leaders to be vigilant and report any suspicious yacht activities they may witness.
Salusalu pointed out that any yacht displaying the Fiji flag has been properly cleared, while those lacking it require scrutiny. He encouraged local residents to contact the Maritime Coordination Centre at the designated phone number 1539 whenever they notice unusual activity. This call to action highlights the need for community involvement in curbing illegal operations and ensuring border security.
In a related context, Fiji’s border security efforts have been hampered by insufficient vessel tracking regulations. It has been reported that approximately 700 to 800 yachts visit Fiji annually, complicating the monitoring of maritime activities. Recent drug seizures, including a record of 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine found in Nadi, illustrate the extent to which criminal organizations exploit these vulnerabilities. With the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service having registered 47 drug-related incidents over the past five years, the situation underscores the urgent need for improved border enforcement.
The ongoing push for stronger community engagement and a collaborative approach to maritime security, alongside continued efforts to enhance tracking capabilities, offers a glimmer of hope in addressing these significant challenges. The commitment of both authorities and local communities plays a crucial role in preserving Fiji’s integrity as a safe destination for tourists and legitimate businesses.