The Lautoka High Court has sentences Jale Aukerea to 50 years with a non-parole period of 25 years.
This was on multiple charges related to the importation and possession of illicit drugs and possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime.
Aukerea was identified as a key player in the drug syndicate, a “top tier” offender alongside ringleaders Justin Ho and David Heritage.
The court found that Aukerea, who owns a kava bar business, played a major role in the logistical aspects of the operation. This included financing and facilitating the transfer, storage, and processing of the drugs.
During the trial, Aukerea took the stand and claimed he had lied to police during his initial interview, stating that he was told what to say by Justin Ho.
Aukerea told the court he wished he had never listened to a “con man,” and that his earlier claims of being under duress were fabricated at Ho’s instruction. However, the court ultimately found him guilty.
He was also charged with attempting to flee the country with Justin Ho and another co-accused, Louie Logaivau, after the drug bust. The group was arrested on Cobia Island, a fact the judge noted as evidence of his involvement and Ho’s leadership in the escape plan.