PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stressed the importance of vigilance in customs operations, noting that a single lapse in security could have catastrophic consequences for a nation.
Officiating at the 2025 International Customs Day at the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service in Suva yesterday, Mr Rabuka reflected on the significant drug interceptions made last year, questioning the potential impact if the drugs had reached the country undetected.
“One sleeping guard can cause the surrender of the whole army,” Mr Rabuka said.
“I wonder what would have happened if we hadn’t found those drugs. Would the second shipment that was intercepted on its way here, would have gotten through? If they knew it would get into Fiji, would it have been allowed through?”
He emphasised that the successful interception of the drugs would likely deter future shipments, reducing the potential harm to the country.
“But the fact that we managed to find them here in Fiji, will probably discourage the shippers and also those that it was intended for, to continue with the shipment,” he said.
Mr Rabuka also noted that he had yet to receive the investigation report regarding the drug interceptions, leaving the involvement of officials or criminals in the matter unclear.
“So, whoever was involved in tipping the police, we have not received the investigation results. Whether it’s investigating criminals or officials, I do not know. We don’t have that report yet,” he said.
In his address, the Prime Minister commended the tireless efforts of customs officers, acknowledging their critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the nation’s ports and borders.
