A Nadi businessman charged for his alleged involvement in the importation of more than 2.6 tonnes of cocaine seized in Vatia earlier this year has been remanded in custody by the Tavua Magistrate’s Court.
This, until his case is called in the High Court later this month.
Anand Kumar, also known as “Bobby”, appeared before Magistrate Timoci Qalinauci. He was represented by lawyer Wasu Pillay while John Vaurasi of the Office of the Director Public Prosecutions represented the State.
Mr Kumar is charged with one count of unlawful importation of illicit drugs, one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs and one count of possession of property suspected of being proceeds of crime.
He is alleged to have worked with others between November 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026, to facilitate the unlawful importation of the drugs into Fiji.
Mr Pillay told the court his client has no other pending cases.
Magistrate Qalinauci ordered the case transferred to the High Court at Ba and told Mr Pillay to submit his client’s bail application, including any claimed alibi, within 21 days to the high court.
The matter has been adjourned to June 22.
