Police in the Northern Division have apprehended five individuals, including a 50-year-old businessman, in connection with drug-related offenses over the course of two days. This was confirmed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, who reported these incidents via a recent statement.

On Friday, December 27, police conducted a search in Naweni Village, Savusavu, where they discovered branches of leaves suspected to be marijuana inside a residence. The male occupant was arrested, and the collected dried leaves were sent for analysis.

The following day, Saturday, four additional arrests were made across different locations in Labasa. In Tuatua, officers found a 50-year-old businessman in possession of two sachets of dried leaves believed to be marijuana, packaged in aluminum foil. A 20-year-old male student from Batinivuruwai, Bua, was also arrested in the same area with another sachet of similar contents.

Furthermore, at the Naduna Settlement, a 55-year-old farmer and a 35-year-old woman were detained after police discovered a sealed bag, a sachet, and a jar containing dried leaves they suspect to be marijuana.

All seized materials have been forwarded for forensic analysis, and results are currently pending. Assistant Commissioner Driu emphasized that police will continue their drug raids and specialized operations throughout the festive season to ensure public safety and uphold the law.

In summary, while drug-related arrests can be concerning, the ongoing vigilance of law enforcement serves as a crucial tool in combating drug use and trafficking, promoting a safer community for all during this festive period.