Fiji: Restructure of Counter Narcotics Bureau a temporary setback and investigations likely to resume quickly
On 13 September, Ioane Naivalurua, Minister for Police, confirmed that all personnel serving the Fiji Police Force (FPF) Counter Narcotics Bureau (CNB) will return to their unit. This followed the arrest of two CNB officers on 12 September for possession of methamphetamine. Of the 41 and 31 year old CNB officers, one is also charged with unlawful importation of illicit drugs that occurred on 11 or 12 September. Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu stated the arrest followed a collaborative investigation between the FPF, Fiji revenue and Customs Service, and the Australian Federal Police. Prime Minister Rabuka indicated that the Bureau will move from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration to be fully under the authority of the FPF, while Minister Naivalurua announced that a selection process will be instituted for officers to join the CNB.
Assessment: The arrests and CNB’s restructure is a temporary setback for Fiji’s counter narcotics efforts. The bureau was established only recently in July 2024 and assessed as not yet fully operational by Fijian senior leaders. The complete removal of all members and placement under FPF authority is an opportunity to renew focus within the unit, and with continued international assistance, it is likely to quickly begin investigations once new personnel are selected. Despite the FPF’s current recruitment challenges, due to PM Rabuka’s prioritisation of drug crime, CNB positions are highly likely to be prioritised. In separate reporting, the Justice Minister indicated that “influential figures” were behind Fiji’s largest drug bust in 2024 and still require further investigation. The drastic measures taken at the CNB and establishment of a selection process focused on ethical standards was almost certainly a decision taken directly by PM Rabuka, Minister Naivalurua, and Commissioner Tudravu, indicating that this level of leadership are not involved in the Justice Minister’s allegations.
Sources: Sainimili Magimagi, “Two Police Officers Arrested for Alleged Drug Offenses,” FBC News, September 13, 2025; Rashika Kumar, “All Police Officers in the Counter Narcotics Bureau Recalled as 2 Arrested for Alleged Drug Possession,” Fiji Village, September 13, 2025; Riya Mala, “Police Officers Arrested for Meth to Appear in Court,” FBC News, September 15, 2025; Sainimili Magimagi, “Influential Figures Linked to Drug Operations,” FBC News, September 11, 2025; Meri Radinibaravi, “Integrity Crisis, Drug Bureau Shuts Down amid Officers’ Misconduct Scandal,” The Fiji Times, September 15, 2025.
