6 arrested after apparatus possibly used for drug lab seized in Nadi warehouse

Six people have been taken in for questioning after consignments from the Canadian province of British Columbia of apparatuses that could be used for a possible clandestine lab have been seized at a warehouse in Nadi.

Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew says more people are expected to be questioned soon.

He says the Taskforces from the Western and Eastern Divisions together with K9 capabilities with the likes of the Fiji Detector Dog Unit intercepted the consignment at the warehouse on Friday.

Chew says analysis conducted on substances found in several containers returned negative for illicit substances, however, because the substances, which are known medications, are also known precursors, investigations are now looking into the element of manufacturing.

The Acting Commissioner says the element of manufacturing is being looked into as there were several cartons containing equipment and apparatuses known to be used for the manufacturing of illicit drugs.

He says a controlled joint operation between the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Revenue and Customs Service resulted in the seizure.

Chew adds the seizure is significant, noting the efforts of tackling illicit drugs in all forms from unlawful possession, unlawful cultivation, importation and manufacturing.