Police officers remanded in custody for alleged possession of 4.7kg of meth

The two police officers who were arrested on Friday in Suva for allegedly being in unlawful possession of illicit drugs have been remanded in custody.

43-year-old Sevuloni Lubi and 31-year-old Ratu Lote Lewaivuna appeared before Suva Magistrates Charles Ratakele this afternoon.

Lubi and Lewaivuna are jointly charged with two counts of unlawful possession of illicit drugs and unlawful importation of illicit drugs under the Illicit Drugs Control Act.

Lewaivuna, is also charged with possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime as it was alleged that he was in possession of $650, suspected to be proceeds of crime.

It was heard in court that both were allegedly found in possession with 4.7 kilograms of methamphetamine.

Lewaivuna told the court that he has four children and his family depends on him.

He also said that they have followed all processes since they were arrested and urged the court to allow them to meet their families and prepare.

Lubi says he has a 17 year old daughter to look after and he is also a first offender.

The State objected to their bail, stating that both persons are charged with serious offences and are highly likely to interfere with the witnesses as both are Police Officers.

While giving his judgement on bail, Magistrate Ratakele says weighing the applicants plea and the prosecutors objection, the court will prioritize the safety of the public.

The case will be called again on the 29th of this month.

On Friday, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu had said that the arrests were made possible through joint efforts between the Fiji Police Force, Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), and the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

Tudravu says the arrests reinforce the collective commitment towards fighting the war on drugs, ensuring those involved are brought to justice, including police officers who may be using their uniform as a front to carry out illegal activities, which are being uncovered.

He said there is a collective will by the majority of police officers, working hard to change public perception about the organisation,reiterating that officers who are working against their sworn oath to protect and serve, will be removed from the Fiji Police Force.