A suspected narcotic submarine was spotted near Kabara, in the Lau Group, where authorities say hardcore drugs are already being used, raising serious concerns that international drug trafficking networks are exploiting Fiji’s remote island waters to smuggle illicit substances into rural communities.
Roko Tui Lau Jioji Kalounivalu confirmed the sighting had been reported to authorities for investigation.
“Just two days ago, we spotted something that looks like a narcotic sub, and it was reported yesterday,” he said yesterday.
“We sent it to RCC (Navy Rescue Coordination Center), and they’re investigating it now.”
He warned that the threat was already real, with signs of marijuana and hardcore drug use on the islands.
“At present, we’ve seen people using drugs on the island, not only marijuana, but hardcore drugs as well,” he said, highlighting the growing danger to families and communities.
Lau’s geography makes the province particularly vulnerable.
“We are a maritime province, and because of the layout, it’s very hard to monitor and do regular surveillance. Police are only in three major areas, Lakeba, Vanuabalavu, and Moala and they lack the resources to cover all islands.”
The community is forced to tread carefully, wary of directly confronting traffickers who may be armed. Instead, villagers rely on reporting suspicious vessels, such as yachts or unknown boats, to authorities.
“Nobody goes out to ask them who gave you permission. All they do is call us, and then we try to back trace them.”
The sighting underscores a growing threat to Lau’s remote communities, where limited police presence and vast maritime territory leave residents exposed to organised criminal activity. Authorities say vigilance and swift reporting remain the frontline defense against the expansion of drug networks in Fiji’s outer islands.
Mr Kalounivalu says traditional village leaders need stronger, legally backed powers and resources to help protect communities from the growing threat of illicit drugs. He said the issue had been repeatedly raised through Lau Provincial Council meetings and the Bose ni Vanua.
He said the Tui Nayau is leading efforts to empower chiefs, particularly in isolated maritime communities, by exploring traditional law forums that would allow village-based rules aligned with national laws.
Mr Kalounivalu stressed that any traditional measures would support, not interfere with, the formal justice system.
