Fiji’s Largest Meth Case: Fourth Accused Sentenced to 14 Years

Aporosa Davelevu gets 14-year jail term in Fiji’s largest meth case

Aporosa Davelevu, a driver and the fourth accused in Fiji’s landmark 4.15-tonne methamphetamine case, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison, with the possibility of parole after 12 years. He was convicted of unlawful possession of illicit drugs for his role in transporting the drug shipment.

The Lautoka High Court heard that Davelevu was recruited by co-accused Justin Ho to drive a truck from Denarau to a warehouse and was paid about $200 for the job. He insists he did not know the truck carried methamphetamine and believed he was moving furniture. Prosecutors, however, presented CCTV footage showing him at the scene and directly involved in the logistics of moving the containers loaded with the drugs. A state witness granted immunity identified Davelevu as one of the people who helped move the drug-filled containers, challenging his claim of ignorance.

This case forms part of Fiji’s largest recorded drug bust, with multiple witnesses and ongoing proceedings illustrating the organized nature of the operation. The courtroom has heard testimony detailing the hierarchical structure of the syndicate and the coercive atmosphere surrounding the drug trafficking activities.

Context from related developments in the same case shows a range of sentences for other defendants. Notably, Louie Logaivau was sentenced to 25 years with parole eligibility after 18 years, while Viliame Colawailiku received 15 years with parole eligibility after 12 years. Other co-defendants have faced lengthy terms as prosecutors push for substantial penalties to deter large-scale drug networks. Sentencing for several co-defendants was scheduled to proceed in August 2025, reflecting Fiji’s firm stance on dismantling organized crime and protecting communities.

Community impact and legal significance: The ongoing proceedings highlight Fiji’s commitment to accountability and public safety in the face of a major narcotics operation. The case underscores the importance of witness protection and robust judicial processes in bringing those responsible to justice, while offering a message of deterrence to others who might consider involvement in similar networks.

Summary: Davelevu’s 14-year sentence marks another development in Fiji’s largest meth case, with other participants facing multi-decade terms. The judiciary’s handling of the proceedings, including immunity witnesses and CCTV evidence, reinforces the country’s resolve to curb drug trafficking and safeguard public safety. The outcomes to date reflect a broader trajectory toward dismantling the operation and restoring community trust in the justice system.

Comments and potential angles for readers:
– Explore how law enforcement and courts collaborate across agencies to tackle cross-border drug trafficking.
– Highlight the human stories behind the case, including financial pressures that may drive individuals into trafficking networks and the importance of rehabilitation and prevention efforts.
– Consider a follow-up on sentencing outcomes for other co-defendants as August 2025 proceedings unfold, to provide readers with a clear view of the case’s trajectory and its broader impact on public safety.