Pacific

Drug arrests in Fiji as new strategy kicks in

14:27 pm on 7 January 2015

Eight people have been arrested in Fiji and more than 2,000 plants believed to be marijuana have been seized after drug raids in the country's north.

The police say those arrested have been kept in custody for questioning.

The Chief of Operations Assistant Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says plant analysis is now being done immediately after a raid so charges can be laid and suspects brought to court without delay.

He says the new strategy is to deter people from taking part in the illegal trade.

The police say raids will be conducted throughout the five police divisions this month.