4kg of Meth Seized at Nadi Airport—Three Men Charged, Including Police Officer

A joint operation between the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Fiji Police Force has led to the seizure of over four kilograms of methamphetamine smuggled through airfreight at Nadi International Airport.

The interception, described by authorities as a major disruption to transnational drug trafficking efforts, resulted in the arrest of three men, one of whom is a serving police officer.

All three accused have been charged with one count of unlawful importation of illicit drugs, and are scheduled to appear at the Nadi Magistrates Court today.

The drugs were detected after FRCS Customs Officers identified irregularities during the screening of an airfreight consignment arriving from a Southeast African country.

A detailed inspection revealed several packets of methamphetamine concealed within the cargo.

A controlled delivery was then conducted in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, leading to the arrests. In addition to the importation charge, the second and third accused also face charges of possessing properties suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Authorities believe the case may be linked to a wider criminal network, and investigations are continuing.

FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh praised the vigilance and professionalism of officers involved in the operation.

“This interception is a direct result of the sharp intelligence, surveillance, and targeting capabilities of our Customs officers, and the strong partnership we continue to strengthen with the Fiji Police Force,” Singh said.

“Together, we are taking firm action to dismantle drug networks at our borders.”

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said the arrest of a law enforcement officer reinforced the force’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption.

“This is a powerful example of what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work in unity,” Tudravu said.

“The arrest of a law enforcement officer also reaffirms the zero-tolerance approach towards the involvement of any individual who uses their position of authority for personal gain through corrupt means.”

He added that a full-scale investigation has been launched to identify those potentially colluding to advance the illicit drug trade.

Singh also issued a warning to would-be traffickers.

“Whether by sea, air, or passenger freight, we are alert, equipped, and coordinated. This interception proves that we will act swiftly and decisively against any attempt to breach our borders with illicit substances.”

The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity related to drug trafficking or the importation of controlled substances.

Reports can be made confidentially by emailing info@frcs.org.fj.