Police say investigations are continuing into three people arrested at Nadi Airport after officers discovered large amounts of cash believed to be proceeds of crime.
The case has now been referred to the Criminal Investigations Department’s Anti-Money Laundering Unit, which is examining whether the money is linked to criminal activity.
The trio were questioned and later released as enquiries continue.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime Mesake Waqa said investigators are widening their focus to include assets and unexplained wealth connected to drug-related offences.
“Investigations into drug-related offences will go further into the proceeds of crime and unexplained wealth,” he said, adding that the approach is in line with Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu’s directive to strike at the financial side of the drug trade.
Police said the three suspects were first intercepted on New Year’s Eve after a vehicle was stopped in Nadi for failing to use seatbelts. Officers became suspicious after checking the driver’s licence and questioning the occupants.
A search allegedly uncovered more than $9,000 on one suspect and over $500 on another.
Police said one of the suspects is a 27-year-old farmer from Sonaisali, Nadi, while the other two are from Tuirara.
Authorities say investigations remain ongoing and further statements will be issued once confirmed.
