Fiji’s Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, has welcomed the convictions of nine people in what authorities call a landmark meth trafficking case, a seizure worth about $2 billion and around 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine linked to the January 2024 operation. The Lautoka High Court sentenced the defendants, including Justin Ho, David Heritage, Louie Logaivau, Ratu Aporosa Davelevu, Sakiusa Tuva, Jale Aukerea, Ratu Osea Levula, Cathy Tuirabe, and Viliame Colawaliku, marking a defining moment in Fiji’s ongoing battle against the drug crisis.
Naivalurua warned that illicit drugs threaten families and communities and stressed that Fiji will not tolerate drug infiltration. He highlighted the broader harms of the crisis, noting that youth and children are being targeted, addiction is spreading, and vulnerable individuals are at risk of exploitation. He also drew attention to a dangerous rise in HIV infections linked to injecting drug use and risky practices such as bluetoothing, where blood is shared among users, underscoring the public health dimensions of the drug trade.
The minister pointed to how the drug trade contaminates institutions and erodes public trust, with some reports circulating of internal corruption within policing. He warned that the shadow of organised crime jeopardizes Fiji’s hard-earned international reputation and the tourism sector that supports thousands of livelihoods. Naivalurua praised the Fiji Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for their dedication and professionalism in achieving the landmark convictions. He noted that the January 2024 operation, which led to the seizure of over four tonnes of methamphetamine, was complex and of unprecedented scale.
He added that the successful prosecution demonstrates growing law‑enforcement capacity and an unwavering commitment to disrupting organised crime and dismantling drug cartels, even as authorities confront attempts at internal infiltration. For those involved in the drug trade, the Minister issued a stern message: drugs will destroy futures, damage health, and tear families apart. He urged those battling addiction to seek help immediately, reminding the public that free HIV treatment and support services are available.
Naivalurua also reminded parents that guidance, vigilance, and discipline remain vital in protecting children, stressing that strong families are the first line of defence. He reiterated the government’s resolve under Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to eradicate the scourge through broad measures, including a Police Uplift programme aimed at strengthening integrity, capacity, and policing outcomes. He emphasized that public trust will be maintained through accountability, and that no one is above the law.
The minister highlighted ongoing cooperation with international partners, including Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, UNDP, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, as part of Fiji’s comprehensive strategy to counter drug trafficking. He noted efforts to address the root causes of the crisis while building social cohesion and community resilience.
What comes next
– Sentencing for the nine convicted individuals is expected to proceed in the Lautoka High Court, with observers anticipating substantial penalties consistent with the scale and seriousness of the operation. Earlier reporting indicates prosecutors have sought lengthy terms based on each defendant’s role, with some central figures facing the toughest penalties.
– The case continues to draw attention to the broader fight against drug trafficking in Fiji, including efforts to strengthen border controls, expand victim-support services, and sustain regional cooperation.
Additional context and implications
– The operation that led to the convictions involved a coordinated, multinational effort and showcased Fiji’s commitment to dismantling drug networks that threaten public health and safety.
– Destruction of the seized drugs, conducted under court oversight at the Dignified Crematorium, was executed to prevent any chance of trafficking or reintroduction into the market, reinforcing public confidence in the judicial process.
– The case remains a touchstone for discussions about integrity within law enforcement and the importance of transparent, accountable policing as Fiji seeks to deter organised crime and protect communities.
Summary
Nine Fiji nationals were convicted in Lautoka High Court in connection with a historic 4.15-tonne methamphetamine seizure valued at about $2 billion, marking a major milestone in the country’s fight against drug trafficking. The convictions, awarded after a complex, high‑profile operation dating back to January 2024, are being followed by sentencing proceedings and ongoing national and regional cooperation to strengthen policing, public health responses, and community resilience. The government frames the outcome as a clear message that illicit drugs will not be tolerated and that strong institutions, international partnerships, and support services will continue to safeguard Fiji’s future.
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