Fiji-US patrol boards 32 vessels and recovers suspected drugs in maritime crackdown

Fiji and the United States have stepped up efforts to protect the country’s vast ocean borders, boarding 32 vessels and recovering suspected narcotics during a major six-day maritime operation.

The joint "Ship Rider" patrol from 21-26 June focused on Fiji's eastern and southern maritime waters as authorities responded to the seasonal increase in foreign vessels entering the nation’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The operation brought together officers from the Republic of Fiji Navy, Fiji Police Force, Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, Ministry of Fisheries and the US Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane in a coordinated effort to tackle illegal fishing, drug trafficking and other cross-border crime.

Authorities said Fiji Revenue and Customs Service officers inspected 26 pleasure craft, while Ministry of Fisheries officials boarded six foreign fishing vessels to check compliance with fisheries laws and conservation rules.

The patrol also led to the recovery of suspected narcotics packages recently found in the Lau Group.

Officials believe the packages may be linked to a wider drug network and have secured them for further investigation.

In another first, the operation used Starlink satellite internet during patrols at sea, allowing boarding teams to communicate directly with the Vuvale Maritime Essential Services Centre in Suva.

The real-time connection enabled officers to verify permits, check vessel histories and share intelligence while operations were still underway, improving the speed of decision-making during boardings.

Commander Justin Matejka of the US Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane, said the operation reflected the close partnership between the two countries.

The joint maritime team boarding to conduct vessel inspections to strengthen border security and enforce fisheries regulations. Photo/Fiji Government

"The United States recognises that Fiji's prosperity and the well-being of the Fijian people are directly tied to the health of the maritime environment," he said.

"The US Coast Guard is here as a steadfast partner founded on a deep and abiding respect for Fiji's sovereignty and your vital leadership role within the region."

Matejka said both countries benefited from sharing operational knowledge and experience, adding that the patrol strengthened a long-term partnership focused on border security and protecting Fiji's maritime resources.

The team inspects a pleasure craft during the joint maritime operation targeting illegal activity in Fiji's waters. Photo/Republic of Fiji Navy

The Republic of Fiji Navy said the operation had strengthened maritime awareness and improved the country's ability to deter illegal activity across its vast ocean territory.

While acknowledging the challenges of policing such a large maritime area, including fuel constraints and increasing operational demands, the Navy said joint patrols in the Lau Group would continue in the coming weeks as authorities gather intelligence, work with local communities and maintain surveillance.

During the post-operation review, Fiji and US officials also agreed to examine the use of specialised detection equipment and underwater remotely operated vehicles, while updating joint procedures and improving information sharing before vessels are boarded.

Watch Commander Justin Matejka of the USCG Harriet Lane talk to the Fiji media about the joint operation

The Fiji Government said the operation highlighted the growing partnership between Fiji and the United States to protect fisheries resources and strengthen maritime security across the Blue Pacific.