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Police and Crime

Five charged with murder of US Tongan

Nuku'alofa, Tonga

Sione Feimoefiafi. Photo source GoFundMe.

Five men have been charged with murder in the death of Sione Feimoefiafi (49) who was fatally injured in a beating at and outside Tali‘eva Bar in broad daylight in the Nuku'alofa CBD, on February 4. 

Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said today the five men who were arrested on February 5 are each facing murder charges.

The deceased originally from Puke, lived in Portland, USA. He was reportedly visiting Tonga from the United States for a family funeral last month.

Feimoefiafi, who was admitted to Vaiola Hospital on Monday afternoon, passed away later that night due to the severe injuries sustained.

The accused, a man (51) from Fatai, two men (48 and 43) from Sopu, a 42-year-old man from Fua’amotu, 
and a 39-year-old from Tofoa, remain in custody, as the homicide investigation continues.

Tali'eva Bar has been closed until further notice as instructed by the Police Commissioner.

No date has been set yet on when the accused will appear in Court.

Meanwhile, a video that went viral on social video showed part of the alleged beatings.