FORMER officers from the Counter Narcotics Bureau took the stand last Friday at the High Court in Lautoka to give evidence in a trial where they are facing unlawful drug importation charges.
Apenisa Matadigo, Chukwuemeka Phabian, and Uraia Tuidama Bolalailai face charges over the unlawful importation of five kilograms of methamphetamine into Nadi.
Presided over by Justice Aruna Aluthge, the court heard detailed testimony from Mr Matadigo regarding his reliance on a trusted informant.
Mr Matadigo told the court that information provided by this informant had previously exposed major drug operators and led to successful arrests.
The court heard that he drove the informant and an immunity witness to the Nadi International Airport solely to uncover the owner of the incoming consignment
Under cross-examination, State lawyer Joeli Nasa questioned Mr Matadigo on operational procedures, suggesting he lacked required authorisation from senior inspectors before travelling to the airport.
Mr Matadigo maintained his team leader had assured him clearance was granted.
Defence lawyer Unaisi Baleilevuka questioned Mr Matadigo next and put to him that the informant instructed him to shift blame onto a Nigerian national, a claim Mr Matadigo rejected.
Former team leader Mr Bolalailai told the court that early intelligence received through Mr Matadigo was routinely passed up to management.
Under questioning from the State, Mr Bolalailai conceded that directing the vehicle movement without prior official approval violated bureau policy.
Mr Nasa put to Mr Bolalailai that the operation was concealed for private financial gain but Mr Bolalailai insisted his actions on the day in question followed directives from higher authorities.
Statements from Customs officers and an Air Terminal Services agent will be tendered as evidence.
Justice Aluthge adjourned the trial to September 28, when former co-accused Neumi Donumainasava and a bureau manager will be taking the stand to give evidence.
(Left) Uraia Tuidama Bolalailai and Chukwuemeka Phabian at the High Court in Lautoka on September 25, 2026.Picture:SALOTE QALUBAU.
