MORE than $50,000 worth of undeclared alcohol, tobacco products and undisclosed cases have been discovered and confiscated by border officials in the last few months.
This was revealed by Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) manager integrated targeting centre Osea Dakai during the second Seaport Border Control Training at the FRCS office in Nadi on Monday
“Over the past several months, following our inaugural training session, our teams of diligent border officials have achieved remarkable success in identifying, conducting thorough searches and executing seizures of illegal items aboard vessels.
“These efforts have yielded significant results, including the discovery and confiscation of undeclared alcohol, tobacco products and undisclosed cases amounting to more than $50,000 in value,” said Mr Dakai.
He said the influx of narcotics, drugs and illegal contraband into the Pacific region posed a grave threat to economic stability and regional wellbeing.
“These successful operations send a resounding message to illegal organisations that Fiji stands firm against illicit activities. Our unwavering commitment to border control and law enforcement is not just a declaration but a demonstrated reality.”
Mr Dakai said they were actively deterring illegal businesses from operating within Fiji’s waters and shores, ensuring that the country’s maritime territories remain secure and free from criminal exploitation.
“This underscores the urgency for stringent security measures and collaborative endeavours to fortify our seaports, ensuring they remain bastions of economic activity and safe havens for lawful trade.”
