The seizure of 14.4 kilograms of methamphetamine that transited through Fiji from Canada to Australia underscores the challenges in combating the illegal drug trade.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua commented on the incident, highlighting the recent drug seizure by Australian authorities.
Tikoduadua emphasized that although Fiji served only as a transit point in this case, it still underlined the necessity for the country to bolster its border security.
He remarked that the extensive measures taken by criminals to conceal the drugs illustrated the importance of strict border controls and the cooperation among international border authorities.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) reported arresting a Canadian national carrying the drugs, which were hidden in plastic packages wrapped in towels soaked in vinegar and coffee beans.
The seized drugs had an estimated street value of AUD 13.4 million (approximately FJD 19 million).
AFP detective Acting Superintendent Steve Wiggins highlighted the broader impact of methamphetamine on the Australian community, noting there were more than 10,000 methamphetamine-related hospitalizations in 2021-2022.