Fiji faces significant challenges in monitoring its porous maritime borders, largely due to insufficient vessel tracking regulations. This weak oversight increases the risk of the nation becoming a transit point for drug and human trafficking.
Currently, various vessels, including yachts and boats, can traverse Fiji’s waters without detection by local authorities. The use of an Automatic Identification System (AIS) onboard vessels, intended to enhance tracking during the COVID-19 pandemic, is not mandatory.
Annually, it is estimated that between 700 and 800 yachts visit Fiji, complicating border security efforts due to their frequent movements throughout the country’s extensive exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The lack of adequate resources to monitor thousands of kilometers of ocean further hinders national security.
The recent seizure of drugs in Nadi illustrates the ways criminal organizations exploit Fiji’s maritime infrastructure. Earlier this year, authorities confiscated 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine that had been transported to a marina in Nadi from a yacht that originally docked in Yasawa waters. Over the last five years, Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has reported 47 instances of illicit drug detection at its borders.
Commodore Humphrey Tawake, commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division, emphasized that the risk of drug trafficking extends throughout all of Fiji’s islands, rather than being confined to remote areas. He noted that criminals operate like businesses, exploiting any opportunity available.
As investigations into methamphetamine trafficking continue, officials are examining the challenges associated with yachting in Fiji and the vital role local authorities play in monitoring visiting vessels and preventing illegal activities.
Yachts have long been linked to the smuggling of illegal goods. In 2018, authorities discovered over $10 million worth of cocaine and ecstasy on an Australian couple’s yacht at Port Denarau. The vessel’s suspicious route from the U.S. to Nadi raised alarms for local officials. Additionally, in the same year, bricks of cocaine washed up on several islands within the Lau Group.
Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free World Fiji, reported that certain yachts have exploited local communities, with accounts of girls being trafficked from the Lau Group to various islands for exploitation. Many visiting yachts frequent areas like the Mamanuca and Yasawa groups, often close to marinas.
Commodore Tawake expressed concerns about the growing number of vessels operating outside peak yachting season, from May to October. He underscored the importance of sharing information regarding a yacht’s journey, especially those arriving from South America.
Vessels in Fiji waters can be inspected at any time. Recently, multiple sailors reported increased searches conducted by border security officials on both newly arrived and long-term anchored boats. While some regarded these inspections as routine, others found them intrusive.
Cynthia Rasch, CEO of Port Denarau Marina, acknowledged that the number of searches has risen over the years, leading to criticism regarding their execution. Some sailors complained about damages caused during these searches and sought compensation from FRCS.
Acting Police Commissioner Livai Driu warned vessel owners about upcoming random checks and emphasized the necessity for compliance with maritime laws. Concerns have been raised about the negative impact of these searches on the yachting sector, particularly in Savusavu, which is working to develop its tourism.
FRCS requires foreign vessels to notify authorities of their impending arrival and to gain clearance at designated ports. Yachts must fill out a detailed joint C2-C form, declaring their onboard stores, crew, and intended duration in Fiji.
Marinas are integral in reporting suspicious activities, and FRCS collaborates with maritime communities to raise awareness. Boats entering Fiji obtain cruising permits that help maintain oversight, enabling locals to alert authorities if a vessel lacks necessary documentation.
However, Commodore Tawake argues that law enforcement should increase its presence in coastal communities, encouraging residents to report any dubious activities, thereby strengthening maritime security.