Five people charged with one count of conspiracy to import illicit drugs have been further remanded by the Ba Magistrates Court.
Those produced before the court this afternoon were Jonathan Hill, Ponipate Mateyawa, John Taotala, Iliesa Cokanasiga and Merewalesi Qolimaiwaqa.
Police allege that between 1 November 2025 and 15 January 2026, in and around Fiji, the five accused conspired among themselves and with others to unlawfully import, transport, transfer and store 2,644 kilograms of illicit drugs.
In addition to the conspiracy charge, New Zealand national John Taotala has been charged with two counts of possession of items believed to be proceeds of crime.
Hill and Qolimaiwaqa have each been charged with one count of possession of items believed to be proceeds of crime.
While entering the courtroom, Hill held a message apologising to his family.
Hill is the son-in-law of Assistant Minister and Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua.
The Fiji Police Force says investigations are continuing, with officers pursuing further leads arising from the case.
