A recent ruling by the High Court of Fiji has raised critical concerns regarding the extensive involvement of properties in the illegal drug trade, particularly in connection with the seizure of 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine. Acting Puisne Judge Penijamini Lomaloma highlighted the link between the imported drugs and specific properties in Nadi, some of which are associated with individuals already facing drug-related charges.
In the court ruling dated June 12, the judge identified one of the properties partially owned by Rasha Kurdi, the wife of Sam Amine, who is currently serving time in New South Wales for drug charges. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) presented an affidavit that detailed the findings from Detective A/Corporal Talemaitoga Dautu concerning the financial investigations into the key individuals involved in the case, including Denarau Fitness Pte Ltd, where illicit activities are suspected to have taken place.
The DPP’s affidavit revealed that the properties under scrutiny—specifically State Lease No. 16827 (Lot 14) and State Lease No. 16829 (Lot 8)—were linked to the storage of illicit drugs, reinforcing the concept of “tainted property” as defined by the Proceeds of Crime Act. Judge Lomaloma ruled that these properties were clearly used in connection with drug offences, further stating that both properties were purchased with funds from illegal activities.
Moreover, the judge noted that Denarau Fitness Ltd lacked any legitimate source of income during the years in question and was presumably involved in the drug trade. Evidence presented illustrated the transfer of methamphetamine to a warehouse owned by the company, which solidified the link between the property and the drug charges against Justin Steven Mashi Ho, who faces several serious counts alongside a potential life sentence.
The ruling comes amidst broader efforts by the judiciary to combat drug trafficking in Fiji, reinforcing the state’s commitment to addressing serious crimes through the judicial process. This case underscores the significance of diligent legal proceedings in the fight against illicit drug activities, offering hope for a more secure community as authorities take actionable steps to dismantle criminal networks.
The judiciary’s decisive actions and the emphasis on transparency in legal processes serve to build public trust and demonstrate a proactive approach to tackling drug-related issues, a necessary move towards ensuring community safety.
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