Drug related equipment found in Nakasi, it was not a drug lab - Tudravu

Police Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu says there was no equipment found to indicate the manufacturing of illicit substances, as per suspicion that there was a drug lab in Nakasi, and they have ruled out the existence of a drug lab.

This is in response to queries received about a suspected drug lab during a raid that resulted in the dismissal of two Fiji Corrections Service officers.

Tudravu says on the afternoon of the 18th of March 2025, a team from the Eastern Division acted on a tip alleging the involvement of a 50-year old man suspected to be selling drugs from his Nakasi home.

The individual is currently out on bail for another case of Unlawful Possession of Illicit Drugs.

Upon arrival at the home, a search warrant was produced and acknowledged by a man who informed the officers that he was a tenant and was renting a room in the house.

A search was conducted resulting in the discovery of drug paraphernalia found on the premises.

Tudravu has commended the strong support shown by the Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa towards holistic efforts in tackling the illicit drug trade.

Two Fiji Corrections Service officers have been dismissed following their involvement in the drug-related incident.

Fiji Corrections says during a raid conducted by police at a premises suspected to be operating as a drug lab, two corrections officers were found present in the room.

Commissioner Nakarawa says it was established that the landlord of the property is a known drug dealer and a former inmate at the Suva Remand Centre.

He says additionally, despite both officers being married, they had been cohabiting as partners at the location.

Investigators discovered drug-related equipment at the location, including digital weighing scales, plastic film sealers, and zip-lock plastic bags containing residue believed to be methamphetamine.

Dr. Nakarawa says the Corrections Service is committed to upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.

The Corrections Commissioner says their internal investigation revealed that the two officers had been renting accommodation at the premises.

He says the Corrections Service maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any misconduct or criminal behaviour by its officers.

The Commissioner says as a result, both individuals have been summarily dismissed following due process under the Corrections Service disciplinary framework.

He adds they continues to work closely with police to address drug-related crimes and remains steadfast in its mission to rehabilitate offenders while ensuring that its personnel uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and accountability.