A forward naval base in the Lau Group is urgently needed to strengthen maritime security and curb the flow of drugs through Fiji’s eastern waters, says Lau Provincial Council chairman Ratu Meli Saubulinayau.
Ratu Meli said current enforcement efforts were severely hampered by geography, limited resources, and insufficient funding.
“We need a base located somewhere in the Lau Group,” he said.
“Proper funding is essential to cover the vast ocean area surrounding the province.”
At present, he said, only three naval ships patrolled the waters, with barely enough fuel to maintain operations. “It is very difficult to respond quickly or deter traffickers.”
Ratu Meli warns that without a permanent naval presence, drugs will continue to reach outer islands, undermining local efforts to protect young people.
“Communities are playing their part, but border security remains a critical weakness.”
A Forward Operating Base (FOB) is a secured, forward-positioned military site, often including specialised facilities, used to support tactical operations and provide rapid response capabilities.
