Drug Bust: 76 Arrested in Fiji as Police Ramp Up Festive Operations

The Fiji Police Force has reported the arrest of 76 individuals across the country this week for drug-related offenses, signaling a continued effort to combat substance abuse. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, emphasized that law enforcement is actively making daily arrests related to drugs, especially as the festive season approaches.

Notable cases include a 64-year-old man arrested at a fish market in Ba with seven sachets of dried leaves thought to be marijuana. Additionally, a 63-year-old carpenter from Bua was apprehended at home with five green plants believed to be the same substance. Other arrests involved a 58-year-old from Lautoka found carrying a bag of dried leaves and over $3,000 suspected of being the proceeds of illegal activities.

Further, a 53-year-old farmer in Labasa and a 52-year-old bowser attendant were arrested for possession of dried leaves believed to be marijuana, while a 51-year-old electrician in Lautoka was charged with possessing methamphetamine. The youngest arrest involved a 19-year-old farmer caught at a drinking spot in Savusavu with five plastic bags of suspected marijuana.

In a separate incident, two women, aged 19 and 25, were taken into custody after failing to pay their taxi fare, during which authorities discovered they possessed a sachet of marijuana. A 29-year-old from Makoi was also arrested last Sunday for carrying two sachets of the same substance and reportedly attempted to bribe the arresting officer.

ACP Driu noted that these drug arrests are the result of proactive strategies including stop and search operations, roadblocks, raids, and the support of the K-9 Unit, as police continue their outreach and awareness initiatives in the community.

This concerted effort by police highlights the importance of public safety and the ongoing battle against drug-related offenses, which is particularly crucial during the festive period when substance abuse tends to spike. The commitment to tackling this issue serves as a positive reminder of the role of law enforcement in protecting community well-being.