The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has recovered two more suspected drug parcels and two old rifles during ongoing counter-narcotics operations in the Lau Group, as naval patrols intensify efforts to disrupt maritime drug trafficking networks.
In a statement authorised by Commander RFMF Major General Jone Kalouniwai, the military said naval personnel continue to conduct sustained operations across the island group in support of national security.
“The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) is pleased to advise the public of continued and sustained counter-narcotics operations conducted by RFMF Naval elements currently deployed in the Lau Group of islands.”
The RFMF said naval personnel departed Vanua Balavu before conducting operations at Cicia on Wednesday night and are now transiting towards Ogea, with Fulaga scheduled as the next point of call.
According to the statement, the patrols form part of a coordinated maritime interdiction strategy aimed at disrupting narcotics trafficking routes through Fiji’s remote island corridors.
“These patrols form part of a coordinated maritime interdiction strategy targeting narcotics trafficking networks exploiting the remote island corridors of the Lau Group.”
Within the past 48 hours, the RFMF said personnel discovered two additional drug parcels on Munia Island.
A gun that was seized by the military – RFMF
The military also recovered two old rifles during a search of an abandoned villa on Katataga Island.
“All seized items have been secured as evidence and will be handed to the Fiji Police Force in accordance with established inter-agency protocols.”
The RFMF said the latest discoveries significantly increased the volume of suspected narcotics and prohibited weapons seized during the current patrol.
“These discoveries bring the cumulative seizures of this patrol to a significant volume of suspected narcotics and prohibited weapons, all of which are now in the custody of the relevant authorities pending further investigation and prosecution.”
The military also expressed concern over the recent human trafficking case involving three teenage girls and reaffirmed its support for the Fiji Police Force.
“The protection of Fiji’s children is not a peripheral concern—it is a moral and constitutional imperative. We will not stand idle while predators exploit institutional weaknesses to prey upon the innocent.”
The RFMF said it has extended its full operational support to police as investigations into the trafficking case continue.
