A recent operation involving a foreign-flagged sailing vessel in Savusavu resulted in the discovery and seizure of undeclared alcohol, with a total duty liability and penalty exceeding FJ $6,500. The operation was a collaborative effort between the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN), utilizing joint intelligence.
The search was conducted by a team consisting of members from the FRCS, RFN, Fiji Dog Detector Unit (FDDU), Fiji Police Force, Fiji Immigration Department, Ministry of Fisheries, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOH). The team found and confiscated a total of 234 bottles of 200ml rum, three bottles of 750ml rum, and one bottle of 1 liter of liquor.
The confiscated alcohol was turned over to FRCS officials for secure detention, and the vessel’s master was arrested and charged under Section 137 (a) of the Customs Act 1986 for the violation.
FRCS chief executive Udit Singh praised the officers for their successful intervention and dedication to protecting the country’s borders from illegal activities. He emphasized that alcohol imported into Fiji is subject to excise duty and that smuggling undermines government revenues essential for funding critical public services, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Singh urged foreign vessel operators to familiarize themselves with and adhere to Fiji’s entry requirements, reinforcing that FRCS will maintain a strict stance against illegal activities at the nation’s borders.