Fugang Zhao, a businessman and hotelier from Suva, has firmly rejected allegations that he leads an organized crime group in Fiji. His response follows an investigative report by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which examined his connections with high-ranking former officials in Fiji.
The OCCRP’s report claims that Fiji police had previously cautioned former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho regarding Mr. Zhao’s alleged associations, but both maintained their relationships with him. In a statement to The Fiji Times, Zhao’s lawyer, Nikheel Nambiar, characterized the claims as “baseless,” asserting that Mr. Zhao is not involved in any criminal activities.
The OCCRP highlighted Zhao’s significant role in China’s efforts to enhance its influence in Fiji, noting an uptick in scrutiny of him following last year’s governmental transition. The report also mentioned that Australian intelligence agencies have identified him as a “priority target” due to possible connections with organized crime, though they have not disclosed any concrete evidence against him.
While critics argue that previous governments overlooked drug trafficking in Fiji, stating that the nation is a strategic hub between drug-producing areas in the Americas and consumer markets in Australia and New Zealand, Mr. Nambiar defended Zhao’s integrity. He expressed that Zhao has no ties to another individual, Jason Zhong, who has a notorious criminal background.
There has been contention surrounding police investigations into Zhao and his alleged crime group, with speculation that efforts were impeded by Qiliho. Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Pio Tikoduadua confirmed the association of Zhao with Bainimarama and Qiliho but did not provide further details on any ongoing inquiries.
Nambiar clarified that while his law firm is the registered office for companies linked to Qiliho and his wife, this is distinct from Zhao’s business interests. Zhao’s hotel is known for hosting events that connect local officials with Chinese representatives, fueling concerns over his influence.
Despite these controversies, Zhao remains active in fostering Chinese relations with Fiji, participating in events alongside military officials and high-ranking politicians, including a recent anniversary celebration for the People’s Republic of China.
As Fiji grapples with challenges of drug trafficking and corruption, the government’s commitment to addressing these issues offers a sense of optimism for reform and transparency in the nation’s politics and business landscape.
This situation underscores the importance of due diligence and accountability among public figures and their connections, igniting discussions on governance and international relations in Fiji.
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