Fiji has been thrust into the global drug trade spotlight after prosecutors revealed that narco-subs were used to smuggle more than two tonnes of cocaine into the country, exposing direct links between locals and international cartels.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku said this in court as he stressed that the six accused in the $1.2billion haul — four Ecuadorian nationals and two Fijian men — now face charges carrying minimum 20-year jail terms.
“The drugs came in narco-subs,” Mr Rabuku said, as the State vehemently opposed bail.
The Fiji Times has been reliably informed that six more people have been arrested in connection to the January 16 raid in Vatia, Tavua.
Deputy director of Prosecutions and Drug Unit head John Rabuku confirmed this while appearing for the State at the Rakiraki Magistrate’s Court where six people – four Ecuadorian nationals and two Fijians – appeared for alleged unlawful possession of the drug that weighed more than 2.6 tonnes.
He said investigations are still ongoing and the DPP will receive the report and make a decision from there.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said the successful operation is a testament to cooperation efforts through the flow of real-time intelligence among law enforcement stakeholders.
“The successful operation came with its inherent risks, and I commend all involved for their determination in pursuing the targets, resulting in the disruption of transnational criminal activity in the region,” he said in a statement.
He also called for public support regarding law enforcement efforts, as it often takes time to ensure targeted responses leading to successful outcomes.
“Many have viewed efforts of disrupting the illicit drug trade as ineffective, not realising the work that goes on behind the scenes, and the risks involved.
“The success of this cross-border operation underscores the commitment by the Fiji Police Force and regional partners in disrupting criminal networks that threaten the security of our country and region.
“We are not sitting back and doing nothing. We are actively pursuing intelligence received and verifying the information. We will uncover the networks and those involved and I am calling for public support towards policing efforts.”
