The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has confirmed that arms and weaponry not belonging to the defence force are present in Fiji and linked to an organised criminal network that intelligence chiefs say poses a credible threat to state infrastructure. Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai told reporters that joint intelligence operations have verified the weapons were not part of the RFMF’s official inventory and that evidence points to a deliberate campaign to target key installations.
“Investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weaponry, verified as being outside of the RFMF’s official inventory,” Kalouniwai said in a statement. He added that documentation recovered during inquiries indicates the network “has ongoing intentions to target key state infrastructure,” a finding the military described as a direct threat to public safety and national stability.
The RFMF said a Joint Task Force is conducting operations to locate and neutralise the threat. While officials did not disclose operational specifics or the exact locations of the weapons, they emphasised that actions under way combine military intelligence with partner agencies to disrupt the group’s capabilities and plans. The statement reiterated the military’s commitment to using “firm, lawful, and proportionate action” against any attempt to destabilise the nation or unlawfully access military assets.
As part of the warning, Kalouniwai urged Fijians not to assist those involved, noting that offering help to the network would expose individuals to severe legal consequences under Fijian law. The RFMF release stressed the importance of public cooperation with ongoing investigations and framed community non-engagement as part of safeguarding national security.
This development follows a string of recent law enforcement operations that have put organised crime under close scrutiny. In January, authorities seized a record haul of cocaine linked to an international smuggling ring, and in February police investigations continued after firearms were discovered at the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s Lautoka mill. Security officials say those incidents, combined with current intelligence, point to increasingly organised and better-armed criminal groups operating in the region.
Investigations remain active and evolving. The military’s confirmation of unauthorised weaponry and the linkage to a group intent on targeting infrastructure mark a notable escalation in the threat assessment from earlier probes into narcotics and illicit arms. The RFMF has assured the public it will continue coordinated operations with relevant agencies to restore security, while underscoring that assistance to criminal actors will be treated as a serious offence.
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