Fiji Police say they remain determined to bring an Australian man accused of orchestrating the country’s largest-ever drug seizure before the courts, vowing to pursue international links behind the operation.
Speaking to ABC program Foreign Correspondent, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mesake Waqa said authorities have already dismantled local networks tied to the case.
“We have already rounded up the local crime syndicates,” he said.
“We will only rest once we charge those responsible, those international crime syndicates.”
Australian national Sam Amine, 49, is wanted by Fiji Police for allegedly orchestrating the importation of more than four tonnes of methamphetamine seized in January 2024 — the largest drug bust in the nation’s history.
“It is my wish for Sam Amine to face trial here in Fiji,” ACP Waqa said.
Authorities say the drugs were supplied by Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel and intended for markets in Australia and New Zealand, with Fiji used as a transit and storage point.
Evidence accepted by the High Court indicates the consignment was stored for several days at a warehouse in Denarau before being intercepted.
Senior Australian law enforcement sources told the ABC that Amine is considered “a major regional target” linked to large-scale drug trafficking routes through the Pacific.
ACP Waqa revealed that part of the shipment had already been moved through commercial air carriers bound for Australia before the bulk seizure was made.
Police say investigations remain ongoing as they work with international partners to track down those responsible.
