The Turaga ni Koro of Vatutavui Village in Ba is questioning whether current yacht monitoring and docking regulations are strong enough, following a major drug bust in Vatia waters last Friday.
Niko Sucuvakaivalu raised the concern after more than 100 bags of suspected drugs were discovered along the shoreline on Friday.
Sucuvakaivalu says villagers first became alarmed last Christmas when a yacht docked in their waters for the first time.
He says the vessel’s presence was unusual and was immediately reported to police.
The village headman is now asking whether there are laws in place to properly regulate yachts that dock illegally or without clearance in Fijian waters, especially in rural and remote areas.
He says Vatutavui villagers remain vigilant and regularly inform Tavua Police Station whenever suspicious vessels are seen at the jetty.
Sucuvakaivalu acknowledges that police have been responsive and are carrying out their duties.
He stresses that while law enforcement plays a key role, community members also have a responsibility to report suspicious activity, saying cooperation is crucial in identifying those involved in illegal drug operations.
Meanwhile, four South American nationals and two Fijians remain in police custody following Friday morning’s raid in Vatia.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu confirms that more than 100 bags containing parcels believed to be cocaine were seized by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, the Serious Organised Crime and Intelligence Unit, and the Western Division Taskforce.
Questions have been sent to police regarding the ongoing investigation.
They are yet to respond.
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