A coordinated search operation on a foreign-flagged vessel in Savusavu led to the confiscation of undeclared alcohol, resulting in a duty and penalty that exceeds $6,500.
The operation was conducted by a coalition of agencies including the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, Republic of Fiji Navy, Fiji Dog Detector Unit, Fiji Police Force, Fiji Immigration Department, Ministry of Fisheries, Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
During the operation, authorities discovered 234 bottles of 200ml rum, three bottles of 750ml rum, and one 1-liter bottle of liquor. The master of the vessel has since been charged under the Customs Act of 1986.
This operation followed a two-week training program on Seaport Border Management Vessel Search, which was supported by Japan and the UNDP. The training included 35 participants focusing on maritime border security and community awareness initiatives.
Plans for the future include the implementation of the Maritime Border Cooperation Framework, aimed at improving maritime security coordination and resource management. The Maritime Essential Services Centre is scheduled to be handed over to the Republic of Fiji Navy in early 2025.