5 December, 2025, 6:53 pm Central - 25°C Clouds

FRCS, Police and MSAF uncover alarming evidence of high-value dutiable goods concealed in used water bottles at Walu Bay

FRCS, Police and MSAF uncover alarming evidence of high-value dutiable goods concealed in used water bottles at Walu Bay

By Iliana Biutu
17/12/2024
Source : Fiji Police Force

A recent joint operation between the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, the Fiji Police Force, and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has successfully detected and disrupted multiple illegal activities.

FRCS says this collaborative effort underscores the importance of resource sharing and information exchange in achieving enforcement objectives.

They say the operation conducted at the Mua-i-Walu port premises and nearby carrier stands, uncovered alarming evidence of high-value dutiable goods concealed in used water bottles.

FRCS adds this sophisticated smuggling technique highlights the evolving methods employed by perpetrators and certain shop owners to evade customs regulations.

They also revealed that undeclared cigarettes were discovered on a fishing vessel, further exposing potential breaches of trade legislation involving shop owners and maritime operators.

They say findings from these coordinated raids demonstrate the critical need to safeguard Fiji’s supply chains from illegal activities.

FRCS CEO Udit Singh says the results of the joint operation highlight the types of illicit activities designed to evade law enforcement.

Singh adds FRCS will continue to work collaboratively with its partners to ensure that individuals engaging in illegal trade are held accountable under the law.

The CEO urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as the festive season approaches.

He also reminded businesses to operate within the confines of the law, ensuring that all traded goods meet legal requirements.

Singh adds together, Fiji can protect its economy and ensure a safe and secure trading environment for all.

FEATURE NEWS
Attorney General must work closely with the GCC on reform of native land laws - President
The principle of free, prior, informed consent or the requirement for effective consultations is crucial to the reform of our laws on native land and ...
2 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
Deaf respondents were among the most affected by online abuse during COVID-19 survey
Findings from the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation and the Disability Rights Fund survey show that during COVID-19, 24 percent of respondents ...
54 minutes ago

$140,000 renovation project of Empower Pacific Counselling Centre aims to provide improved services
A $140,000 renovation project, funded through a donation by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has seen the soft-launch of the Empower ...
1 hour ago

People's Fiji and Next Gen Alliance Party applications released for public objection
The Fijian Elections Office has confirmed the publication of applications from two proposed political parties. Speaking to the media, Supervisor ...
2 hours ago

Tourism Fiji strengthens its engagement with operators in Vanua Levu and Taveuni
A platform for open discussion on opportunities, constraints, and pathways to improve tourism outcomes in Vanua Levu and Taveuni was the main focus ...
3 hours ago

Vou makes history as first Fijians to headline major NZ Arts Festival
A proud moment for Fiji’s creative industry is on the horizon, as Vou Dance Company prepares to make history on two of New Zealand’s major arts ...
4 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Fiji Law Society Convention 2025
There is a constant struggle that we seem to have in Fiji with upholding and respecting the rule of law, and in my view, I think it starts at the ...
9 hours ago

Tribunal case of suspended Commissioner of Corrections Dr Nakarawa
Tribunal proceedings for suspended Corrections Commissioner Dr Nakarawa are underway, focusing on allegations of misbehaviour during his tenure as ...
9 hours ago

Inspire Pacific Founder Ben Morrison and Peer Mentor Tikiko Tavualevu on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan
Pastor Ben Morrison and Tikiko Tavualevu on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan as they discuss Inspire Pacific’s specialised ...
1 day ago

TOP