Police have intensified border security measures, especially in maritime areas, to tackle drug trafficking issues. This statement was made by Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations (ACP) Livai Driu at the World Maritime Day 2024 event in Suva.
ACP Driu emphasized that there is a comprehensive framework in collaboration with customs, immigration, and fisheries to address the challenges posed by drug trafficking. He expressed concern regarding the rising number of yachts potentially involved in smuggling drugs, noting that many of these vessels do not enter through official channels.
He highlighted that these yachts often land in the eastern regions of the Lau group and Vanua Levu, regions identified as particularly vulnerable. ACP Driu pointed out that this presents a significant challenge for the authorities.
The ACP also underlined the necessity of international collaboration and intelligence sharing in the fight against drug trafficking. He reassured the public that police operations would maintain a strong presence aimed at managing drug traffic effectively. Furthermore, he mentioned that efforts to enhance intelligence operations would extend beyond domestic efforts to include cooperation with regional countries.