5 in custody for drugs

Five people are in Police custody after they were found with drugs.

Chief of Operations Assistant Commissioner of Police ACP Livai Driu says a team of officers led by the Station Officer Seaqaqa conducted a raid in the Vunikoko Highlands where they arrested a 22-year-old man as he arrived at the farm whilst the officers were uprooting the plants.

ACP Driu says a tip was received about the alleged cultivation of illicit drugs, which led to the discovery of more than 3,700 plants believed to be marijuana at this farm.

He says the plants have been sent for analysis while the suspect remains in custody.

The Chief Operations Officer says another drug raid was conducted in Caubati, where officers from the Fiji Detector Dog Unit and Narcotics Bureau arrested a 23-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man following the discovery of illicit drugs believed to be marijuana.

He also says that the Western Division Narcotics team arrested two men in Lautoka after they raided a motel and allegedly found illicit substances believed to be methamphetamine.

ACP Driu adds it is encouraging to receive tips and information which is pursued by the Operations and Narcotics Bureau.

He has also commended community leaders for supporting the work of Police and acknowledging their role in the war against drugs, as it will greatly assist efforts of curbing the illegal trade.

He says it is a concern that children are also involved in the illicit drug trade, and this has increased.

The Assistant Commissioner says engaging community support is crucial in protecting the young innocent lives from the vicious drug cycle.