The Fiji Intelligence Unit (FIU) has reported a link between major drug seizures in Fiji and organized illegal activities. During a presentation to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, FIU acting director Esther Sue discussed the findings from the Fiji Financial Intelligence Annual Report 2023.
Sue emphasized that drug trafficking is typically connected to serious organized crime groups, highlighting that there are identifiable individuals, elements, or networks involved that have been profiled previously in collaboration with law enforcement.
She noted that the profiling began several years ago, indicating, “There is substantial evidence to suggest that this is not an isolated occurrence; these activities have been purposefully organized.”
Sue explained that these groups likely spent years planning their operations, as indicated by their ability to manage large quantities of drugs. She mentioned various associated activities and individuals who have raised suspicions, which have surfaced through ongoing interactions and cooperation with the Fiji Police Force. This partnership enables the FIU to conduct financial profiling on identified targets based on the information and names provided by the police.