Five individuals are set to appear at the Ba Magistrates Court today as part of the ongoing investigation into a significant drug seizure in Vatia. The accused include a 49-year-old foreign national, a 33-year-old unemployed woman, a 40-year-old boat captain, and two self-employed individuals aged 34 and 39, all hailing from Suva.
Following thorough consultations with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), each of the five has been charged with a single count of Conspiracy to Commit Importation of Illicit Drugs, as stipulated under Section 49 of the Crimes Act 2009 and Section 8 of the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004. The police allege that between November 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026, the accused conspired, both among themselves and with other parties, to unlawfully import, transport, transfer, and store a staggering 2,644 kilograms of illicit drugs.
Additionally, the foreign national faces two counts of Possession of Property Believed to be Proceeds of Crime in accordance with Section 70(1) of the Proceeds of Crime Act 1997. The woman and the 34-year-old self-employed man are also charged with Possession of Property Believed to be Proceeds of Crime under the same legislative framework.
The Fiji Police Force is actively pursuing further leads as their investigation continues, highlighting their commitment to tackling drug-related crimes in the region. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Fiji to combat drug trafficking and maintain public safety. As the judicial process unfolds, there is hope that it will deter future illicit activities and promote greater community awareness regarding drug-related issues.