Court Orders Destruction of $2 Billion Methamphetamine Batch

The High Court in Lautoka has ruled that a substantial quantity of methamphetamine, previously part of police exhibits, is to be destroyed. Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge approved the application for destruction on Friday, initiated by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) under Section 30 (3) of the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.

This ruling pertains to a significant case involving Justin Ho and nine others, who face charges for importing over 4.2 tons of methamphetamine into Fiji, valued at approximately $2 billion, last December.

In his decision, Judge Aluthge outlined specific protocols to be followed during the destruction process:

1. A police officer, at least of the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police, designated by the Commissioner of Police, will oversee the disposal of the illicit drugs through incineration or alternative safe methods.
2. The court and all respondents must be notified two weeks in advance of the destruction date, time, and location.
3. Legal representatives for the respondents may be permitted to observe the destruction process, adhering to security protocols.
4. The destruction process will be documented through photographs and preferably video recordings.
5. For transparency, the ODPP may request the local Resident Magistrate to observe the destruction.
6. A report detailing the disposal will be prepared by the police officer in charge, signed by two witnesses, confirming compliance with the court’s order.
7. This report must be submitted to the court within two weeks following the destruction.

This ruling marks a significant step in combatting drug trafficking in Fiji, as authorities move towards ensuring that safety, transparency, and proper legal processes are upheld during drug disposal operations. Maintaining a thorough documentation and oversight system not only assures compliance with legal standards but also promotes public trust in the judicial process.

This proactive approach towards drug disposal highlights the judicial system’s commitment to tackling drug-related crime and ensuring that illicit substances do not re-enter the community.