Umarji Aiyaz Mohammed Musa, a businessman and former sports leader, has returned to Fiji after serving a reduced prison sentence in New Zealand for drug-related offences, but his legal issues are continuing.
Musa was sentenced to four years in prison in August 2023 for importing $5 million worth of pseudoephedrine, a precursor in methamphetamine production, from Fiji to New Zealand. Previously, he was recognized as a significant figure in the business and sports communities, managing over ten pharmacies across the Pacific.
After successfully appealing his sentence, he received a six-month reduction and arrived back in Fiji last Wednesday.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Mesake Waqa confirmed that Musa is under active investigation by Fijian authorities for serious crimes, including organized crime, drug trafficking, money laundering, and misappropriation of funds. The Criminal Investigations Department and the Serious Organised Crime Unit are leading the investigation, which is based on intelligence from the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit.
ACP Waqa stated, “There are still active investigations into these matters, and we are pursuing them with due diligence.”
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua emphasized the government’s strong approach against crime, asserting that “no one is above the law.” While he acknowledged Musa’s return, he offered no further details due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, reiterating the commitment to combat narcotics and organized crime.
Musa had previously held a vice-presidential position at the Fiji Football Association and was involved in various business ventures, including pharmacies, restaurants, and real estate. His arrest and subsequent conviction have left a notable impact on Fiji, damaging the reputation of a once-celebrated figure in sporting and pharmaceuticals.