The Chief Executive Officer of Biosecurity Authority Fiji said claims by an American businessman that he was asked for a payment by some senior biosecurity officials are outrageous.

The American businessman, Ken Honig was earlier taken in for questioning as Fiji Police and Biosecurity Authority received information that Honig allegedly brought in the American Iguanas to Fiji which is now causing a major problem in parts of Vanua Levu.

Honig has now claimed in an interview on Radio NZ that he was not allowed to leave the country and he was then allegedly asked to pay certain officials if he wanted to leave.

CEO of Biosecurity Authority Fiji, Elvis Silvestrini said he thinks Honig has been watching too many B grade movies.

He said the allegations are outrageous fabrication and it is interesting he is making them in a blog.

Silvestrini said he cannot comment on the details of an ongoing investigation but Honig has been assisting Biosecurity Fiji with their enquiries into the illegal importation of the invasive species, the American Iguana.

Silvestrini said Honig was required to remain in Fiji until they complete taking the witness statement which is a normal practice but he was free to move about during the entire process.

He also said the court action filed by Honig discontinued at an early stage.

Silvestrini further said that Honig was free to travel, he was advised as such and is free to come and go as he pleases.

He said the investigation into how the iguana was introduced to Fiji will continue.

Silvestrini said they will operate within the confines to the law and they won't be swayed by this sort of rubbish.


Story by: Vijay Narayan