Louie Logaivau, the third accused in a high-profile drug case involving over 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine, testified in the Lautoka High Court that he felt coerced by co-accused Justin Ho into participating in the drug operation. Logaivau claimed that Ho threatened him, suggesting that a mafia group had menaced both him and his family due to his association with them.
During his testimony on July 1, 2025, Logaivau recounted how, on December 23, 2023, Ho approached him with urgent demands, stating that his life depended on his cooperation. He explained that, between September 2022 and December 2023, he worked for Ho at a car wash and lived in Ho’s apartment. Logaivau asserted he only discovered the true nature of his activities—loading drugs—once he saw the contents of the containers while working at Bula Bus yard in Denarau.
The trial has attracted significant public interest for its serious allegations and implications regarding organized crime in Fiji’s drug trafficking scene. Logaivau’s claims were vigorously challenged during the proceedings, notably by State Counsel Joeli Nasa, who questioned why he hadn’t reported these threats earlier. Logaivau defended his silence, explaining his overwhelming fear for his sister’s safety, the only family member he had.
Additionally, Logaivau described disturbing experiences of being kidnapped and forced to relocate under duress, stating he was taken against his will from a warehouse by unidentified individuals before being ultimately recovered by Ho. He emphasized that Ho frequently reminded him of the peril they faced from the mafia.
The trial continues amid an overarching hope that testimonies like Logaivau’s will provide clarity and help dismantle illicit drug networks. Each day in court reaffirms a collective commitment from witnesses and authorities to address drug-related crime and enhance community safety in Fiji. Moreover, it spotlights the courage of individuals like Logaivau, who, despite facing intimidation, choose to speak out, thereby reinforcing public trust in the legal process.
Leave a comment