On a seemingly ordinary Thursday morning, Diwalar Dubey, the general manager of Pacific Batteries, received alarming news that would upend his routine. Upon arriving at the company’s Lami factory, he discovered a heavy police presence — between 20 to 30 officers were investigating a significant anomaly found during their battery recycling operations.
Pacific Batteries, which has been a cornerstone of Fiji’s energy solutions for 65 years, encountered a shocking find inside an imported battery. Tightly concealed within a modified casing was a suspicious white substance sealed inside clear plastic, crafted to look like a standard industrial power cell. Lead-acid batteries, which are essential for powering vehicles and machinery, normally contain hazardous materials, making this discovery particularly unsettling.
The incident unfolded during a routine battery-cutting operation late Thursday night when a machine jammed while processing one of the batteries. Team members, concerned about the blockage, took matters into their own hands and, using an axe, broke open the battery to investigate. Within, they discovered the altered casing containing the mysterious substance and promptly notified law enforcement.
Fiji’s Police Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu, confirmed that while initial tests ruled out illicit drugs, the presence of two known methamphetamine precursors prompted further analysis involving experts from the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science.
Dubey emphasized that the batteries containing the suspicious substances were not local products but rather imported models labeled “Energy Power” and “Heavy Duty Group 31,” often used in trucks and heavy machinery. He maintained that rigorous records are kept on all transactions involving battery purchases, highlighting that this incident could have originated from a scrap collection process, which remains under scrutiny.
This troubling discovery raises significant questions: How did these modified batteries end up in Fiji? Who was responsible for the alterations? There are only 21 licensed battery importers in the country, and given the low import duties, there’s a significant risk of unauthorized imports entering the market unregulated.
In light of this incident, Dubey advocates for stricter controls on battery imports and heightened awareness of potential trafficking routes. He remains committed to the responsible operations of Pacific Batteries, emphasizing the need to adapt to challenges posed by unconventional practices.
This development not only underscores ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking in Fiji but also highlights the critical importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. Continued collaboration between authorities and the public can foster a safer environment as engaged citizens play a pivotal role in reporting any suspicious activities.
Ultimately, while the findings initially present a negative scenario for Pacific Batteries and the public, they could serve as a catalyst for meaningful change in regulations, enhancing the safety and integrity of battery imports and contributing to the fight against illicit activities in Fiji.
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