Fiji: Government almost certain to continue joint counter-drug operations

Around 14 June, the Fiji Government rejected calls to suspend joint Fiji Police Force–Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) anti-drug operations despite ongoing investigations into deaths following arrests and NGOs alleging other abuses. The Government cited recent drug seizures and marijuana eradication as justification for maintaining the operations, including 26 parcels of suspected illicit drugs washing ashore in Lau Province on 8 June. They also stated that accountability measures would continue, confirming that 12 police officers are being investigated for procedural failures related to one recent detention and death that appears to not have involved the RFMF or a clear link to drugs. Separately, traditional leaders in Cakaudrove requested the extension of police–military operations in Naweni, citing reduced drug activity and positive behavioural changes among local youth.

Assessment: With continued operational successes and a large portion of public support, the government will almost certainly continue the joint FPF–RFMF counter-drug operation through to the general election, which does not yet have a specified date but can take place from August 2026. The government will likely seek to preserve public confidence through internal investigations targeting individual service members rather than the institution.

Sources: Peceli Naviticoko, “Police, military operations to remain in Naweni,” FBC, 4 June 2026; Apenisa Waqairadovu, “Twelve officers under investigation,” FBC, 7 June 2026; “Fiji detectives investigating joint task force raid after death,” RNZ, 8 June 2026; Sainiani Boila, “26 more drug parcels found,” FBC, 8 June 2026; Yvonne Ravula, “NGOCHR calls for suspension of joint RFMF-Police operations,” FBC, 10 June 2026; Kaya Selby, “Amnesty International calls out 'historic patterns' of brutality after Fiji man's death,”  RNZ, 12 June 2026; Iva Danford, “Government rejects calls to end joint police and military operations,” Fiji One, 14 June 2026.