Six individuals have been charged in connection with a significant drug seizure at Vatia Wharf and are scheduled to appear before the Rakiraki Magistrates Court. The State will be represented by John Rabuku, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions.
Authorities reported that, after consultations with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), four Ecuadorian nationals were charged with one count each of Unlawful Importation of Illicit Drugs, Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs, and Unlawful Entry into Fiji, under Section 6(1) of the Immigration Act 2003.
Additionally, a 26-year-old man from Veisaru, Ba, faces one charge of Unlawful Importation of Illicit Drugs, two counts of Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs, as well as a charge of Serious Assault. A second man, also 39 years old and from Veisaru, Ba, is charged with one count of Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs and one count of Serious Assault.
The charges stem from a coordinated police operation at Vatia Wharf, during which authorities intercepted individuals believed to be involved in the transportation of illicit substances. A significant police presence is noted in the town and surrounding court area as all six accused are expected to be formally presented before the Rakiraki Magistrates Court, where the State will lay out its case through the ODPP.
Police have stated that investigations are ongoing, indicating that additional charges could be brought in the future. The situation highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the region, reflecting a commitment to public safety and legal integrity.