Monitoring Fiji’s maritime borders has become increasingly challenging due to the country’s inadequate vessel tracking regulations, which heighten the risk of being used as a conduit for drug and human trafficking. Currently, various types of vessels, including yachts and boats, can cross Fiji’s borders without detection by local authorities.
There is no requirement for vessels to maintain an automatic identification system (AIS), a tracking mechanism introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance monitoring of maritime activities. It is estimated that between 700 and 800 yachts visit Fiji annually. The vast movement of these vessels within Fiji’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) combined with limited resources to monitor extensive ocean areas creates significant challenges for national border security.
The recent drug seizures in Nadi exemplify how criminal organizations can exploit the country’s limited resources, utilizing marinas and ports to move substantial quantities of methamphetamine valued in the billions. Earlier this year, 4.15 tonnes of meth seized in Nadi had arrived via a yacht that docked in the Yasawa waters before being transported to the marina in Nadi.
In the past five years, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) reported 47 illegal drug detections at the border. Commodore Humphrey Tawake, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division, stated that the perception that scattered island groups are the primary hot spots for drug trafficking is misleading, asserting that the entire region is susceptible.
As investigations into Fiji’s methamphetamine issues continue, there is a pressing need to address the risks associated with maritime borders, the impacts of yachting on local communities, and the responsibilities of authorities in monitoring visiting vessels.
Yachts and small craft have been long suspected of smuggling drugs and other illegal items into Fiji. In a notable incident in 2018, over US$10 million worth of cocaine and ecstasy were discovered aboard a yacht belonging to an Australian couple at Port Denarau, raising suspicions due to the yacht’s questionable journey from the Americas. That same year, packages of cocaine were found washed ashore on several islands in the Lau Group.
Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free World Fiji, revealed that some yachts are exploiting locals in remote areas, with reports of girls being trafficked within the islands for illicit purposes. Commodore Tawake expressed concern over the increasing presence of such vessels, especially those operating outside the typical yachting season from May to October.
The search process for vessels in Fiji is rigorous, with authorities having the authority to conduct inspections at any time. Recent anonymous accounts from sailors indicate an increase in searches of both newly arrived and longer-staying boats by border security personnel. Port Denarau Marina’s CEO, Cynthia Rasch, acknowledged these practices have intensified but can also be intrusive, leading to complaints of damage during inspections.
Authorities, including Acting Police Commissioner Livai Driu, have stressed the importance of compliance with maritime laws and random checks. Concerns have been raised about how these searches might affect the local yachting sector, particularly in growing destinations like Savusavu, which aims to attract more yachting tourism.
Foreign vessels entering Fiji must notify the FRCS prior to their arrival and must secure clearance from multiple agencies before navigating the waters. A joint C2-C form must be completed, detailing the vessel’s information, including its route and intended duration of stay in Fiji.
The role of marinas is crucial in reporting any suspicious or illegal activity. The FRCS runs a Coastal Watch Programme, collaborating with local communities to identify and report unusual events. Vessels obtain cruising permits from the iTaukei Affairs Board, which helps ensure thorough checks and monitoring by the authorities.
Commodore Tawake emphasized the need for increased law enforcement presence in these communities, urging greater vigilance in reporting suspicious activities.