Authorities in Vatia, Tavua, recently seized a record haul of cocaine valued at an estimated $A780 million ($F1.2 billion) during a significant drug raid. The operation, which took place last week, resulted in the recovery of 2.64 tonnes of cocaine contained in 2,630 parcels, all of which tested positive for the narcotic through forensic analysis.
The raid led to the arrest of six individuals, including four Ecuadorian nationals and two locals from Veisaru in Ba. These suspects appeared in court at the Rakiraki Magistrate’s Court on related charges. This operation was the culmination of months of intelligence work by the Serious Organised Crime and Intelligence Department, which collaborated closely with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Authorities indicated that the shipment, which was initially flagged in December 2025, had come from South America and was suspected to be en route to a neighboring country via a semi-submersible vessel. On January 15, police intercepted a vehicle believed to be carrying illicit drugs before raiding a boat near Vatia Wharf, ultimately leading to one of the largest drug seizures in the nation’s history.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu emphasized the significance of international cooperation and intelligence sharing in combating transnational criminal networks, noting that this success reflects the effective collaboration among law enforcement agencies. Investigations are ongoing as police seek to identify and apprehend additional individuals linked to this smuggling operation, highlighting a commitment to tackling drug trafficking in the region.
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