Qiliho to visit investigators in relation to the Russian yacht Amadea docked in Lautoka

Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho will visit the investigators tomorrow in relation to the Russian superyacht Amadea docked in Lautoka.

The superyacht belongs to Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov who has been sanctioned by the US, UK and EU.

Qiliho says Police are working with the customs authorities, immigration, health, biosecurity and their foreign counterparts in dealing with this issue.

Qiliho confirms that the guidelines are clearly set out and they will also investigate any breaches and investigations will also focus on the area of drugs, arms and ammunition and money laundering.

Qiliho says he will be able to give an update after he meets the investigators.

The yacht arrived into the country on Tuesday and is docked in Lautoka.

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service says they are providing full support to the Fiji Police Force, as the lead agency, with all matters in relation to the Amadea.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health says they will not comment further on any issues relating to the Russian superyacht berthing in Fiji.

In a statement the Ministry says initially, approval for yacht arrivals were based on travel partner status.

They say since there is no more distinction for travel partner status, the ministry’s approval for entry of yachts into Fijian waters is no longer a requirement.

The NZ Herald reports that the sanctioned Russian oligarch's superyacht is reportedly refuelling in Fiji this week before returning to its homeport and authorities expect that's the closest many will come to New Zealand.

It is unlikely the owner is on board.

The Amadea left Mexico on March 24th.

Superyacht agents in NZ said they won't assist any Russian-owned vessels into their waters whether or not they are sanctioned because of the war in Ukraine.

Catalano Shipping managing director Duthie Lidgard said the skippers know they are not welcome in New Zealand, but that hasn't stopped some inquiring about other ports.

Lidgard said they have had people wanting information about the Asia Pacific region, not necessarily New Zealand, Australia or Tahiti, but across the Asia Pacific region.