Fiji: Increased tempo of military and police counter-drug operations almost certain to continue over the next four weeks

5 May

Around 24 April, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and Fiji Police Force (FPF) announced that the public should expect increased joint counter-drug operations across the country. Increased operations were noted as early as 22 April in urban, rural, and maritime areas, including targeted raids. Increased vehicle checkpoints and raids have continued including the arrest of a suspect linked to the known “drug lord”, Jone Vakarisi, who died in RFMF custody on 16 April. The new suspect has been charged with offences relating to the proceeds of crime and refused bail, while Vakarisi’s death remains the subject of a murder investigation. On 4 May, Prime Minister Rabuka announced that a state of emergency declaration was not needed despite earlier raising its possibility. Additionally, the RFMF has increased its force protection measures, closing its Blackrock medical facility to the public and reminding the public that RFMF sites as a no-fly zone for drones. The RFMF and FPF state that the FPF remains the lead agency.

Assessment: All senior security leaders, including the PM, are supportive of the increased tempo of counter-drug efforts. They are almost certain to continue at this level for the short-term, including further targeted raids, arrests, and widespread checkpoints. A key determinant of continuation beyond this will be whether new leads are generated exposing the wider drug trafficking network. As the state retains control of the security forces, the threat to stability remains assessed as medium, with isolated incidents of violence against locals, foreigners, and businesses likely to occur.

Sources: Yvonne Ravula, “Drug raids intensify nationwide as police target proceeds of crime,” FBC, 22 April 2026; Nikhil Aiyush Kumar , “Police and Military e scalate crackdown on drug networks,” FBC, 24 April 2026; Apenisa Waqairadovu, ”Joint drug operations ramp up nationwide,” FBC, 25 April 2026; “Heavy security a t Nasinu home after drug arrest,” FBC, 28 April 2026; Nikhil Aiyush Kumar, “Pol ice seize drugs and cash in Suva surge operations,” FBC, 29 April 2026; “Fiji rules out state of emerg ency as security forces ramp up drug crackdown,” RNZ, 4 May 2026; Apenisa Waqairadovu, “Land Force Commander issues final warning to drug lords,” FBC, 4 May 2026; Elena Vucukula, “‘King Khan’ refused bail,” The Fiji Times, 1 May 2026.