Fugang Zhao, a businessman and hotelier based in Suva, has publicly refuted claims that he leads an organized crime group in Fiji. His rebuttal follows an investigative report released by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which examined Zhao’s connections with prominent former officials in Fiji, including former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho.
Zhao’s attorney, Nikheel Nambiar, labeled the allegations as “baseless,” asserting that Zhao does not engage in or support any criminal activities. The OCCRP’s report suggested that despite warnings from Fiji Police about Zhao’s associations, both Bainimarama and Qiliho maintained contacts with him.
Zhao has drawn attention as a significant player in China’s efforts to expand its influence in Fiji, especially following a governmental shift in 2022 that heightened scrutiny of foreign relations. The report notes that Australian intelligence has flagged him as a “priority target” due to potential links with organized crime, yet no concrete evidence has been publicly disclosed.
Historically, critics have claimed that Bainimarama’s administration overlooked the growing issues of drug trafficking within Fiji, which serves as a strategic logistical hub located between drug-producing regions and markets in Australia and New Zealand. The OCCRP mentions a 2020 police briefing that identified Zhao as the leader of a local organized crime group, which reportedly included Jason Zhong, a convicted criminal known for serious drug-related offenses.
Despite these serious accusations, Nambiar insists that Zhao has no affiliation with Zhong, emphasizing that Zhao had no personal or professional relationship with prominent figures like Bainimarama and Qiliho. Zhao’s connection to these officials is framed as mere customary respect due to their positions, particularly as he aims to uphold high standards in the tourism industry.
Drawing attention to the hospitality sector’s role, Nambiar pointed out that Zhao’s hotel frequently hosted events featuring diplomats and senior officials. While Zhao remains publicly active in forging ties with China, the current Fijian government has expressed intentions to combat drug trafficking and police corruption, setting a stage where Zhao will need to navigate these complex relationships with scrutiny.
The involvement of Zhao in significant cultural events, including milestones celebrating China’s National Day, suggests that despite challenges and allegations, his influence persists. This situation underscores the ongoing dynamic between foreign business interests and local governance in Fiji.
In summary, Fugang Zhao continues to refute the allegations against him, and while he has gained notoriety in the context of organized crime investigations, the lack of concrete evidence and the emphasis on tourism and diplomacy may offer a more nuanced view of his role in Fiji. The government’s determined stance on addressing narcotics and corruption may pave the way for improved oversight in the future, fostering greater accountability and transparency in international relations.
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