The State yesterday outlined a series of aggravating factors it says should weigh heavily in sentencing Justin Ho, one of nine individuals convicted over Fiji’s largest methamphetamine bust — the 4.15-tonne seizure valued at $2 billion.
Prosecutors told the High Court that Mr Ho was closely linked to an overseas drug cartel through Sam Amine and played a deliberate, hands-on role in planning and monitoring the massive drug importation.
They said Mr Ho financed the transportation, transfer and storage of the methamphetamine, oversaw its storage, stocktake and movement within the Nadi area, and exposed young people, including his own employees, to the drug trade with no regard for their futures.
The State alleged Mr Ho pursued a “drug lord lifestyle” from the proceeds, living and spending lavishly, and tried to flee Fiji with co-accused Louie Logaivaui and Jale Aukarea when police launched investigations — showing no cooperation with law enforcement.
Prosecutors further submitted that Mr Ho failed in his civic duty to recognise the devastating impact the 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine would have on Fiji, the Pacific region, and beyond, and displayed “no sense of accountability at all.”
State asked for a 50 year sentence on Justin Ho.
Justice Aruna Aluthge is expected to deliver sentencing after next week.