Three individuals have been arrested on suspicion of illegal possession of drugs, believed to be methamphetamine, in separate incidents throughout Suva. The arrests took place over Thursday and Friday in locations such as Votualevu, Grantham Road in Raiwaqa, and Belo Street in Samabula.
The first suspect, a 30-year-old man from Nanuku Settlement, was apprehended on New Year’s Day along Grantham Road. Law enforcement officials allegedly discovered several zip lock bags containing a white substance thought to be methamphetamine, as well as smoking paraphernalia, dried leaves resembling marijuana, and cash that is suspected to have been obtained through criminal means.
In another incident, a 25-year-old man in Votualevu was detained after police reportedly found clear plastic bags containing a similar white substance believed to be methamphetamine.
The third individual, a 37-year-old man from Makoi, Nasinu, was arrested on Friday when a zip lock bag containing a substance matching the description of methamphetamine was found in his possession.
Currently, all three men remain in custody as authorities await the results of analysis on the seized substances. Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, revealed that investigations into drug-related offenses would include scrutiny of potential proceeds of crime and unexplained wealth. This focus aligns with directives issued by Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, aiming to target the financial underpinnings of the drug trade while enhancing community safety.
This proactive strategy underscores the authorities’ commitment to tackling substance abuse and fostering a safer environment for the public. As these investigations progress, they may contribute to broader measures that seek to diminish drug trafficking and protect communities from the impact of drug-related crime.