AGP Executive Report

Drug Trafficking in Lau: Another 35 suspected drug packages were found near Vanuabalavu in Cicia, with local leaders again questioning gaps in maritime patrols as police and Navy respond. Police Reform: Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says Fiji Police are reviewing Police Academy training after misconduct concerns, with longer recruit courses and stronger discipline measures. Frontline Boost: 140 newly graduated recruits will be deployed nationwide to fill vacancies and increase community visibility. Police Grievances Tribunal: A Fiji Police Bill review is debating whether non-disciplinary employment grievances should go to a dedicated tribunal instead of the Employment Relations Act. Water Plan 2050: Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau says Fiji’s water problems need long-term funding under Water Strategy 2050, not quick fixes. Indigenous Marine Rights: Suvavou representatives want stronger customary qoliqoli recognition so traditional owners benefit from commercial activity in Suva Harbour. HIV Funding Warning: WHO warns funding cuts could undermine HIV prevention in Asia-Pacific, including fast-growing epidemics in Fiji. Fiji FACT Football: Rewa staged a comeback to beat Navua 2-1 in the BiC Fiji FACT opener. Fuel Relief Timing: Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel says lower global fuel prices may take 1–2 months to reach consumers due to Fiji’s pricing lag. Commonwealth Games Weightlifting: Fiji’s former gold medallist Eileen Cikamatana is set for another Commonwealth Games medal push in Glasgow.

Police & Justice: Former Telecom Fiji director Sanjay Kaba has been acquitted after a court found insufficient proof in a FICAC charge of obtaining a financial advantage. Public Safety: Fiji Police Force has welcomed 150 new constables after a 132-day training course, boosting manpower for station and post deployments. Drugs & Courts: A 16th accused, Vishwa Nadan, has been remanded in custody over Fiji’s large cocaine seizure linked to the Vatia Wharf case, with the matter heading to the Ba High Court. Health & Rights: Fiji Women’s Rights Movement’s “Period Justice in a Climate Crisis” festival in Nasinu urged menstrual health to be included in national climate planning, highlighting barriers to products and WASH during disasters. Economy & Energy: UN/UNDP dialogue in Suva says Fiji spent $711m importing fuel in 2024, pushing calls for faster renewable energy transition before subsidy support ends. Sports (Fiji): Lautoka opened the BiC Fiji FACT with a 4-1 win over Nasinu, while Nasinu captain Maika Dau says they’ll keep fighting to qualify after their loss. Community & Governance: Constitution Review Commission submissions include calls for pay protection when crises hit, and Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation warns any “living wage” move must be evidence-based and fix wage-setting gaps first.

Election Watch: Dialogue Fiji warns any move to postpone Fiji’s next General Election beyond the constitutional deadline could trigger a legitimacy crisis, economic damage and possible sanctions, arguing Parliament cannot extend its own term. Public Sector Pay: Minister Charan Jeath Singh says executive salaries in Fiji’s public sector should be tied to measurable performance and outcomes, not just position or years of service. Women’s Rights: The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre condemns online victim-blaming after rape charges were filed against two prominent soccer players, urging respect for survivors and letting the legal process run. Health & Safety: FCOSS is pushing for more mental health funding in the 2026-2027 Budget, including a community Mental Wellness Centre in Lautoka and support for informal settlement community councils. Climate Diplomacy: Fiji’s climate chief says Pacific nations need a stronger seat at the table at COP31 talks, with better access to climate finance for communities hit hardest. Land Rights: Munia Island traditional owners are set to regain ancestral control in early July after decades under the Land Buyback Scheme. Sports (Fiji): Labasa says it’s ready to defend its BiC Fiji FACT title as the tournament kicks off against Suva. Rugby (England/Fiji link): England coach Steve Borthwick plans to rest captain Maro Itoje this summer, with Nations Championship matches including Fiji.

Police Corruption Trial: A senior CID officer, George Lagi, will stand trial after the Suva Magistrates Court dismissed his “No Case to Answer” bid over alleged bribes of $6,580 (adjourned to June 24). Court Case Update: Fiji Broadcasting Corporation Limited fraud allegations involving former CEO Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and CFO Vimlesh Sagar were adjourned to July 7. Fuel Relief Delayed: Foreign Affairs Minister Sakiasi Ditoka says lower global oil prices won’t hit Fiji pumps immediately due to purchase and supply “lag time,” urging patience. Local Governance Pressure: The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre says the near two-decade delay in local government elections is worsening municipal services and accountability. Public Health Powers: A new Public Health (Amendment) Bill proposes stronger outbreak enforcement, including fines up to $10,000, quarantine powers and penalties for spreading false information. Maritime Security & Ocean Protection: Fiji and Panama launched a global push to protect the ocean’s “twilight zone,” while Fiji, Philippines and Sri Lanka expand drone use for maritime security. MSG Leadership: Vanuatu’s Anna Naupa becomes the first woman to lead the MSG Secretariat in Port Vila. Sports & Community: Police Sharks launched the Vodafone Fiji Cup season, while FWCC condemned victim-blaming social media after rape charges against two soccer players.

Disaster Preparedness: The UN’s Pacific Resident Coordinator Sanaka Samarasinha says disaster response starts before disaster strikes, urging pre-positioned supplies, community coping plans, drills, and clear roles for civil society and the private sector. Maritime Security: Fiji and the US are stepping up enforcement with joint shiprider patrols targeting illegal fishing and drug trafficking, with Fijian officers directing actions in Fiji’s waters. Ocean Protection: Fiji and Panama launched a global push to protect the ocean’s “twilight zone” (200–1,000m deep), calling for action against fishing and deep-sea mining. Fiji Pearls Netball: Nanise Waqaira and sister Eseta have been named in Fiji Pearls training plans, with coach Michelle Parsons praising Nanise’s form in New Zealand. Sports Council Probe: Lawyer Tomasi Tuitoga says the Fiji Sports Council CEO investigation report has not yet been submitted to Police. Boxing in Suva: Mikaele Ravalaca will defend his WBA Oceania lightweight title against Rohit Chauhan on July 25, with two other WBA bouts also confirmed. Economy & Budget: PM Rabuka says the State of the Fijian Economy Dialogue will feed into revisions for next week’s 2026-2027 National Budget. Police Discipline: Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu warned new recruits the force is “not a breeding ground for criminals,” stressing ethics and accountability.

Regional Security: Palau’s Justice Minister Jennifer Olegeriil told the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue in Suva that summit promises must become real action for frontline police, warning drug trafficking, human trafficking and online exploitation are too big for any one island to tackle alone. Maritime Cooperation: The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane arrived to support Fiji’s maritime security under the ship-rider agreement, with crews working alongside Fijian agencies to boost search-and-rescue and law enforcement at sea. Constitution Review: Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission heard calls to formally protect the role of traditional chiefs, while other submissions urged stronger village unity protections amid religious differences, and opposed the death penalty for drug offenders in favour of rehabilitation. Road Safety: The Land Transport Authority announced a new two-tier provisional licence system (P1 and P2) from Sept 30, with tougher restrictions and training aimed at cutting crashes involving new drivers. Schools Reopen: All schools will resume normal operations tomorrow after weather improved, though parents are urged to use caution where flooding and unsafe crossings remain. Economy & Families: The Fiji Council of Social Services warned households are at breaking point from fuel costs and inflation, calling for faster renewable energy support. Sports: Fiji’s Flying Fijians get a boost with the unveiling of the Nations Championship Trophy ahead of a new competition featuring top rugby nations.

Court & Justice: A High Court judge ordered a Russian-language interpreter for a Hungarian man facing methamphetamine import charges after raising concerns he can’t fully understand English; the case is adjourned to June 25 for plea. Drug Fight at Sea: Fiji is recruiting coastal communities, fishermen and boat operators to help spot drug traffickers, while the Police Ministry pushes for new maritime patrol boats and dedicated police bases in Lakeba, Savusavu, Levuka and Denarau. Anti-Corruption Scrutiny: FICAC is investigating the departure of a businessman linked to a reported $20m tax case, after questions were raised about how he left Fiji despite a stop departure order. Immigration Crackdown: Immigration says it is moving to penalise employers who exploit foreign workers, after trafficking victims were identified and placed under Immigration care. Border Processing: MPs heard passenger risk checks are still manual, with an Advance Passenger Information system being developed as arrivals rise. Weather & Services: Government services and most schools are resuming after heavy rain eased, but some areas remain closed due to flooding, rough seas and strong winds. Tourism & Environment: Tourism Fiji flags waste and improper disposal as a threat to Fiji’s clean-destination image. Sports: Fiji Pearls coach Michelle Parsons says the next international window will be a tough physical and mental test, with seven training sessions a week.

Love Island USA in Fiji: Executive producer James Barker, 40, died during Season 8 filming after an unexpected medical emergency, with ITV America and Peacock confirming tributes planned for Tuesday’s episode. Weather & schools: Heavy rain and flooding disrupted roads and crossings across Fiji, but most schools are set to reopen tomorrow after assessments, with some areas still closed due to flooding, rough seas and access issues. Drug taskforce row: A human rights activist is calling to dismantle Fiji’s police-military drug taskforce, while the government says it does not support the move amid ongoing investigations into deaths linked to raids. Suva governance spotlight: Parliament scrutiny continues over Tourism Fiji, with questions raised about delayed financial reporting and oversight of public funds. Biodiversity check: Fiji is consulting on its Seventh National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity, reviewing progress and gaps in protecting forests, rivers, wetlands and marine ecosystems. Connectivity campaign: Digicel Fiji launched its “With You” brand push, focusing on staying connected for everyday life and major moments. Commonwealth Games: Team Fiji has named 58 athletes for Glasgow across eight sports, led by chef de mission Ajay Ballu. Flooding update: Fiji Roads Authority reports multiple low-lying crossings still underwater in the Central Division and beyond, urging motorists to avoid affected routes.

Severe Weather Disrupts Daily Life: Fiji’s Ministry of Education has ordered all schools closed nationwide as heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and coastal inundation worsen, urging parents to keep children at home and avoid flooded roads and crossings. Government Continuity Measures: The Government has directed Permanent Secretaries and agency heads to activate business continuity plans, including work-from-home and possible local office closures, so essential services keep running safely. Elder Abuse Warning: The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection says elder abuse remains hidden and underreported, with financial exploitation rising sharply, while police data shows crimes against people aged 60+ fell overall but deception-related cases jumped. Immigration Role Shift: Immigration officials say the move to a standalone ministry has expanded responsibilities, including investor scrutiny, which they say was not originally part of their border-focused mandate. Love Island USA in Fiji: Reality TV executive producer James Barker, 40, died in Fiji after an unexpected medical emergency; the show plans to honour him in Tuesday’s episode. Sports—Nasinu’s Fiji FACT Bid: Nasinu FC returns to the Fiji FACT with renewed confidence, chasing a first-ever title in Group B against Lautoka, Nadroga and Ba.

Maritime Safety: The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has issued an urgent warning after recent tragedies, including a Navy-led rescue of five people (including a child) from an overdue boat near Korolevu–Vatulele and a fatal Beqa incident where three died and one remains missing, urging strict compliance with safety protocols as rough, unpredictable seas are “immediate and fatal,” especially for small craft. Fuel Relief Caution: The Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission says don’t expect quick cuts to fuel and LPG prices even after a US-Iran peace deal, warning Fiji’s pricing follows an international cost lag and any relief will take time. Agriculture Upgrade: Fiji’s Agricultural Chemistry Laboratory at Koronivia has reopened after a $1.3m upgrade, aiming to improve testing accuracy and disease detection for farmers and exporters. Police Accountability: Police say the investigation into the death of Constable Peniasi Racagi has been forwarded to the ODPP for independent legal review, expected to take 3–4 weeks. Climate Leadership: Fiji MP Inia Seruiratu has been appointed Pacific Ocean Envoy ahead of COP31, joining envoys for climate targets and access to finance. Regional Security: US Coast Guard launches Operation Blue Pacific to deter illegal activity across Oceania, including drug and people smuggling and illegal fishing, with patrols planned across Fiji and other island states. Economy & Jobs: A $2.5m retail development in Labasa is underway, expected to create about 30 jobs, while building permits rose in the March quarter to 287 permits worth $300.9m. Tourism Inclusion: Tourism Fiji faces questions over how well remote-area operators (like Labasa and the Rakiraki–Tavua corridor) access support and major industry events.

Marine Protection Push: Fiji plans to place 15% of its ocean territory under full protection by end of 2026, aiming to tackle illegal fishing and protect fish stocks as part of the 30x30 goal. Women in Politics: Opposition MP Premila Kumar and Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre coordinator Shamima Ali offer cautious support for an all-women party, warning the path to Parliament remains steep. Fatal River Tragedy: Four young villagers tried to rescue a trapped family after a vehicle plunged into the Nasivi River in Vatukoula, but all five people in the car died. Super W Spotlight: Drua Women’s captain Bitila Tawake credits resilience and composure for their 29-24 win over Western Force. Fiji FACT Football: Labasa names a 22-member squad for the BiC Fiji FACT title campaign, starting against Suva FC on June 19. Health & HIV Stigma: Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre says misconceptions that HIV is a “gay disease” are still driving stigma, urging open, education-led prevention. Police Recruitment: Police defend merit-based recruitment after concerns about transparency. Overseas Voting Costs: Notary fees for postal voting are flagged as too high for many overseas voters, potentially lowering turnout. Justice Questions: Fiji’s UN ambassador raises concerns about links between ICC prosecutor Karim Khan and former Fiji legal figures, calling for hard questions about justice institutions. Fuel Shock Planning: Fiji seeks contingency planning with Viva Energy to protect its fuel supply chain from global volatility. FSC Update: Fiji Sugar Corporation says debt is set to rise again to about $310m despite a $200m write-off, as costs and cane supply remain under pressure.

Police & Justice: Fiji Police are awaiting post-mortem results after a man was found motionless inside a vehicle at the Arts Village taxi stand; he has not yet been identified. Disciplinary Action: Four officers involved in the arrest of the late Sakiasi Ose Radravu will be interdicted on half pay and face internal proceedings, while a Death Register file is being prepared for a full inquest. Weather & Safety: A Heavy Rain Alert is in force nationwide, with flash-flood risk in low-lying areas and wet-road hazards for motorists; a separate coastal inundation alert warns of sea flooding and rough conditions in parts of the Yasawa/Mamanuca, Viti Levu, Kadavu and nearby islands. Drugs & Policing: Government rejects calls to end joint Police-RFMF operations, saying they are disrupting drug networks, while also stressing accountability and due process as investigations into two deaths continue. Economy & Tourism: Tourism Fiji urges investment beyond traditional hotspots, and Accor and Yavu Collective have signed to bring three more hotels (Sofitel, The Sebel, TRIBE) to Fiji by 2027. Governance & Services: The National Archives says Fiji lacks local training for archivists, relying on internal mentorship and overseas opportunities. Sports (Fiji-linked): Melbourne Storm forward Tui Kamikamica’s NRL return looks unlikely after a stroke setback, with his World Cup hopes also fading.

Election Integrity: Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube says Fiji should not change election rules so close to polling, warning it could damage public trust and stressing the need for stable, well-funded reforms. Ballot Paper Update: The Electoral Commission says Parliament may amend ballot papers after public feedback—voters want “a face and a name,” though fitting more parties on one paper is a logistical and cost challenge. Regional Aid: The Asian Development Bank has approved $4 billion to help countries hit by the Middle East conflict, including support requests that name Fiji, with funds aimed at fuel, food and broader economic pressures. Child Labour Alarm: A new report links poverty to child labour in Fiji, with many children leaving school early; officials say breaking the cycle needs education, social protection and adult jobs. Local Pressure Points: Nasinu Town Council warns rapid population growth is straining roads, sewer systems and services, calling for a dedicated “Look Nasinu” policy. Sugar Update: Cane growers are set to receive a higher delivery payment ($42 to $47) to keep harvesting going amid low yields and rising costs. Tourism Boost: Fiji expects over $10m from a 430+ North American incentive group arriving on Fiji Airways charters. Aviation Probe: A helicopter ditching off Wailoaloa near Nadi is under investigation after the pilot escaped unhurt.

Aviation Safety: Fiji’s Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has appointed veteran accident investigator Captain Norman Walding to lead an investigation into a Robinson R44 helicopter ditching off Wailoaloa, Nadi, on June 11; the pilot escaped unharmed and the aircraft was later recovered largely intact. Constitution Review: The Constitution Review Commission heard calls for tougher constitutional penalties on coup makers, with submission urging stronger safeguards to protect democracy and ensure changes of government happen only through elections. Drug Fight & Police Reform: Former Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Unaisi Vuniwaqa says Fiji needs a whole-of-government response to the drug crisis, warning that salary rises and stand-alone agencies won’t be enough without coordinated action and clear Police-RFMF SOPs. Child Labour & Online Safety: Fiji marked World Day Against Child Labour with renewed warnings that poverty cannot justify child work, while Policing and Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua pushed stronger collaboration to protect children from online exploitation. Sugar Industry Pressure: Fiji Sugar Corporation says drought drove its lowest-ever cane production in 2025 and warns sugar stocks could run out locally by month-end unless mills start promptly. Super Rugby Women: McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women host Western Force in Lautoka, aiming for consistency after promising signs in their opener. Regional Finance: The Asian Development Bank announced a US$4b crisis package for countries hit by the Middle East conflict, including Fiji, to support energy and food imports and ease economic pressure.

Rugby Update: Atu Sokobale is ruled out of Fiji’s Nations Championship window with injury, and Worcester prop Livai Natave has been called up to add depth. Child Protection: The Government says children belong in school, not workplaces, as officials mark World Day Against Child Labour and push prevention over rescue. Drug Fight: A former senior police official warns Fiji needs a whole-of-government response to the drug crisis, not just salary rises or one agency acting alone. Online Safety: Ministers met to strengthen online child protection, focusing on better coordination and enforcement against harmful digital content. Sugar Sector: Fiji Sugar Corporation reports its lowest cane production in 2025, blaming drought and saying irrigation trials fell short due to costly equipment needs. Maritime Safety: MSAF urges mariners to check weather and marine notices after a fatal boat incident in Navua. Regional Support: The ADB announces a $4b crisis package for Asia-Pacific economies hit by the Middle East conflict, with Fiji among countries seeking help. Fiji Sports: Suva FC kicks off its 2026 Fiji FACT campaign against defending champions Labasa next Friday.

Fuel, food and jobs pressure: The Asian Development Bank says it is mobilising about $4b to help Asia-Pacific economies hit by the Middle East conflict, with $1b earmarked for trade finance for energy and food imports. Maritime safety: The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji urged mariners to check weather and marine notices after a fatal boat incident in Navua, while heavy swells of up to four metres continue to threaten parts of Fiji. Rescue at Wailoaloa: ATS paddlers helped save a helicopter pilot after a crash landing off Wailoaloa Beach. Sugar crunch: The Sugar Cane Growers Council says limited funding is hurting farmer outreach, and Fiji Sugar Corporation warns sugar stocks could run out by month-end if harvesting doesn’t pick up. Local development: A new Ministry of Agriculture office was commissioned on Rabi Island, and Ra leaders pushed for value-adding local resources and job creation. Sports: Team Fiji’s final Commonwealth Games delegation is set, and Fiji U20 coach Tui Osborne says defence and attack must improve ahead of the Junior World Championship.