Authorities have apprehended a man believed to be a significant figure in the nation’s drug trade. Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime (ACP) Mesake Waqa announced that the suspect was detained by the Fiji Police Force’s Serious Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) in collaboration with officers from the Western Division.
The 29-year-old individual was implicated in drug distribution activities, prompting a coordinated raid at a residence in Lautoka. This operation led to the discovery of white crystals, white powder, and dried green leaves, which were later identified as methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, respectively. Additionally, the authorities seized smoking devices, a digital weighing scale, a packing machine, along with local and foreign currency believed to be linked to illegal activities.
Alongside the primary suspect, two other men and a 20-year-old woman were also arrested. During the execution of the search warrant, the suspect reportedly released a dog and attempted to escape but was swiftly captured by law enforcement officers.
In a separate incident, three men and two women were detained following a raid in Namaqumaqua, Serua, where authorities confiscated a liquid mixture and white substances confirmed to be methamphetamine.
The SOCU, formerly known as the Counter Narcotics Bureau, has rebranded to enhance its strategy against the drug trade and tackle related serious organized crimes such as money laundering, human trafficking, and arms smuggling, according to Mr. Waqa.
He emphasized the Fiji Police Force’s dedication to bringing major players in the illegal drug distribution network to justice and urged the public for patience as these efforts require time and a solid evidence-based approach to ensure successful legal proceedings.