The Government is exploring the establishment of a naval base in a maritime island to strengthen maritime security and support anti-drug operations.
Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua said the initiative is part of a national security strategy to interdict drugs and improve law enforcement at sea.
“It’s already been discussed,” he said.
“It’s part of our defence strategy. Lau has been identified.
“The police need to have a forward element whether in Savusavu, (or) in the western side.
“A document is already out and this is under the Ministry of Defence and some of these recommendations articulates very clearly the forward parts of our maritime, so called navy.”
Mr Naivalurua stressed that the navy’s role is to support police operations, helping intercept drugs at sea while police maintain leadership in enforcement.
“But right now, first things first, get everybody together, understanding what needs to be done, and let’s fight it together.”
He said the move aligns with Fiji’s strategy to combat drug trafficking through coordinated maritime and community operations, ensuring rapid response capability and strengthened law enforcement across key maritime zones.
