In a surprising revelation, Jale Aukerea, a 42-year-old man from Nadi, known for his popular kava bar, Kava Kings, has been charged in connection with a significant methamphetamine seizure in Fiji. RNZ Pacific, in collaboration with The Fiji Times, discovered that Aukerea is linked to two separate drug seizures totaling 4.8 tonnes of meth, believed to have been smuggled into Fiji via barge for re-exportation.
Aukerea faces charges related to concealing 1.1 tonnes of methamphetamine at a property in Maqalevu, Nadi. Some of these illegal substances were deceptively packaged as 62 packets of kava. This activity starkly contradicts the community-oriented reputation of Kava Kings, a Votualevu establishment renowned for hosting live music events featuring prominent Fijian artists.
Further investigations reveal that Aukerea extends his business ventures to Australia, where he co-owns and directs Kava Kings Pty Ltd, a Sydney-based company recognised as “Official Australian Government Approved Importers” of kava. Despite the seriousness of the allegations in Fiji, there is no evidence suggesting any illicit connection between Aukerea’s operations in Fiji and Australia. The Australian branch of Kava Kings, known for its branded merchandise and promotion of reggae concerts, appears unaffected by the scandal.
Peter Su, Aukerea’s business partner in Australia, expressed his surprise over the arrest, revealing that their business relationship had ended over two years ago. Su recalled the company’s ambitious beginnings in 2020, with the goal of becoming a significant player in the kava importation industry, a dream that eventually faded.
This case not only reveals the dual life of a businessman who once celebrated cultural events but also raises questions about the kava industry, known for its peaceful and communal nature. As the investigation continues, the impact of this bust on the regional narcotics trade and the kava market remains uncertain, emphasising the intricate relationship between legitimate businesses and criminal enterprises.
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