A High Court in Lautoka, presided over by Justice Aruna Aluthge, has ordered the destruction of a significant batch of illicit drugs, specifically methamphetamine. This ruling, made on Friday, followed an application from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which sought to dispose of these exemplary illicit drugs in accordance with the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.
The case is related to Justin Ho and nine other individuals who are accused of importing over 4.2 tons of methamphetamine, valued at approximately $2 billion, into Fiji last December.
In his ruling, Justice Aluthge outlined several key points regarding the destruction process:
1. The disposal of the drugs will be carried out by a police officer of at least the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police, as designated by the Commissioner of Police, using incineration or other safe destruction methods.
2. Prior to the destruction, a two-week notice will be provided to the Court and all respondents, detailing the date, location, and method of destruction.
3. Subject to security protocols, legal counsel for the respondents may be granted permission to observe the destruction of the drugs.
4. The destruction process is required to be photographed and, if possible, video recorded for transparency.
5. To uphold the integrity of the operation, the ODPP may ask the Resident Magistrate of the relevant area to oversee the destruction.
6. Following the disposal, the police officer in charge must prepare a report, which will be signed by themselves and two witnesses, confirming that the drugs were disposed of according to the court’s order.
7. A report certifying the destruction will be submitted to the Court within two weeks post-destruction.
This decisive action represents a significant step forward in combating the drug trade in Fiji, reinforcing judicial oversight and accountability in the disposal of illegal substances. The inclusion of legal and security protocols in the process serves to uphold the integrity of the judicial system while emphasizing the commitment to eradicating drug trafficking. The systematic destruction of such a large quantity of dangerous substances not only reflects the determination of law enforcement but also instills hope for a safer future in the community.
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