Financial Crime World

Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit Dishes Out Major Blows to International Drug Trafficking Rings

By Naveel Krishant

FIU Director Razim Buksh addresses the media

The Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been instrumental in disrupting international drug trafficking rings with the assistance of financial intelligence and collaboration among law enforcement agencies.

Drug Trafficking - The Leading Cause of Money Laundering Risk

According to Razim Buksh, the Director of the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit, drug trafficking, cultivation, and related offences have remained the leading cause of money laundering risk in Fiji. This assessment is based on a review conducted in 2020, following an evaluation in 2015.

International Drug Trafficking Case and FIU’s Role

During the investigation of a significant international drug trafficking case, the FIU identified several red flags including unusual account activities, shell companies, and suspicious wire transfers. These findings were provided to law enforcement agencies, leading to the conviction and sentencing of Canadian national Joshua Aziz Rahman.

Arrest and Sentencing

Rahman was arrested in Caubati, Suva, in February 2019, with a staggering 39.5kg of cocaine worth approximately $31 million. The Suva High Court recently sentenced him to 20 years in prison, with a non-parole period of 14 years.

The FIU, alongside other leading Fijian agencies, plays a crucial role in preventing and detecting money laundering, terrorist financing, and related criminal activities, including drug trafficking.

Summary

  • Drug trafficking, cultivation, and related offences continue to pose the most significant money laundering risk in Fiji.
  • FIU’s collaboration with Fijian law enforcement agencies led to the successful conviction and sentencing of Canadian drug trafficker Joshua Aziz Rahman.
  • The FIU has been instrumental in disrupting international drug trafficking rings.
  • Other key Fijian agencies also contribute to combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and related criminal activities.