The Pacific Detector Dog Program in Nadi [Source: Fiji Police]

Over $17 million of illicit drugs has been seized by the Fiji Detector Dog Unit since 2016.

This has been revealed by Police Commissioner Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho while opening the Pacific Detector Dog Program in Nadi today.

He says the Pacific Detector Dog Program has had years of success in the Pacific, and Fiji is no exception, since its establishment in 2015.

The Police Commissioner says the Fiji Detector Dog Unit has been quick to make its presence known with the high volume of drug seizures, undeclared currency and a case of firearms and ammunition recorded over the last three-year period.

“The recent high-profile case where Australian John Nikolic was found guilty of the illegal importation of illicit drugs and the possession of arms and ammunition, is a success story that the Fiji Detector Dog Unit had a major role in. The successful prosecution had surely sent out a strong message that Fijian authorities have the capabilities and resources through the specialized Fiji Detector Dog Unit, to intercept large consignments destined for other countries.”

Brigadier General Qiliho also highlighted that over $330,000 in currency was seized in the 2017 and 2018 period.

He adds a case of firearms was also recorded during this period.