The Lautoka High Court has today dismissed a strike-out application filed by the respondents in the matter of Denerau Fitness PTE LTD, Sam Amine, Rasha Kurdi and Mherina Amahaizabeen Ali Ahmed in relation to the $8.8 million worth of restrained properties linked to the $2 billion drug bust in Nadi in 2023.
The State had filed a restraining order application and a subsequent forfeiture application on the two properties worth $8.8 million comprising an area of 1,293 square metres, a property and land comprising 1,157 square metres, in Denarau, Nadi, identified during a financial investigation as properties used to store the drugs.
The matter was called today to hear the respondents’ strike-out application, however, there was no appearance or representation on behalf of the respondents.
The State moved to have the application dismissed and this was granted by the Court.
The two properties remain restrained following orders granted by the High Court last year.
The State is seeking a final forfeiture order under the Proceeds of Crimes Act 1997.
The matter has been adjourned to 24th April 2026 for mention and hearing of the State’s application.
Meanwhile Lautoka High Court Judge, Justice Aruna Aluthge had highlighted in the drug trial last year that the successful $2 billion methamphetamine raid in December 2023, investigation and prosecution of the case proves that the Fijian law enforcement agencies, despite many challenges they face, are still capable of tackling the challenges posed by sophisticated drug cartels which were equipped with super yachts, satellite phones, encrypted messaging apps and the blessings of local politicians.
In his ruling, Justice Aluthge said the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt that Justin Ho and David Heritage jointly executed the master plan drawn by Australian businessman, Sam Amine to bring the largest ever hard illicit drug consignment into Fiji.
He said there is no doubt that Sam Amine, based in Australia, with a foreign drug syndicate (Russian or Hispanic), orchestrated the shipment that delivered the consignment of methamphetamine into Fiji.
