By Katalina Siasau
The illicit drugs market in Tonga is a growing concern for Police Commissioner Geoff Turner, who says large quantities of drugs moving through the Pacific could eventually create a local market if not carefully managed.
In an interview with Matangi Tonga Online on 14 February 2026, Commissioner Turner said the drug issue in Tonga is not as large as some might believe.
“There is a drug issue here that we are dealing with, but it's not at the scale that some people think it is,” he said.
While significant amounts of drugs are being transported across the Pacific region, Turner explained that these shipments are mainly in transit and not intended for the Tongan market.
“We are seeing large quantities of drugs moving through the Pacific, but they are transhipping, they are not big quantities for Tonga,” he said.
However, police are closely monitoring trends. Turner warned that if drugs are stockpiled in Tonga while waiting to be shipped elsewhere, those involved in trafficking could be paid in drugs instead of cash. This could lead them to sell the drugs locally, creating a domestic market.
Meanwhile, to better understand drug use in Tonga, police are examining drug demand and pricing trends. According to Turner, changes in drug prices can indicate shifts in supply.
“If the costs stay stable, then suppliers are staying stable. If prices suddenly skyrocket, it means there’s a shortage. If prices drop and become cheaper, it means there’s a surplus,” he said.
Wastewater testing
Police are also considering wastewater analysis to measure illicit drugs consumption levels. The program would be supported by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, which has received funding to conduct wastewater testing across parts of the Pacific.
Wastewater analysis for drugs is a scientific method used to estimate the consumption of licit (pharmaceutical) and illicit drugs in a specific population by analyzing samples from sewage treatment plants. While Tonga does not have a centralized sewage system, individual buildings may be tested.
Turner said he has written to the government and is awaiting a formal response on the proposal.
Possible drug testing within police
If wastewater analysis is approved, Turner said drug testing could begin at police stations.
“We’re not going to test hospitals and other buildings and not test ourselves. We will test ourselves,” he said.
If results indicate a serious problem, discussions could begin with government about mandatory drug testing for police officers. However, Turner noted that there is currently no evidence requiring such action.
“I haven’t seen the evidence of it yet, but if it is uncovered, then we will look to address it,” he said.
US suppliers
Turner confirmed that methamphetamine entering Tonga is still largely linked to connections in the United States.
Tongan authorities are working closely with US agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the FBI.
He said cooperation with US counterparts is strong and continues to grow, with regular information sharing and joint efforts.
He confirmed that authorities are working with international counterparts to pursue extradition processes so that suspects can face charges in Tonga.
The Commissioner had not confirmed whether Police had apprehended criminal US Tongan suppliers and deported them to Tonga.
Strengthening intelligence
A key part of the Tonga Police strategy 100-day plan is improving intelligence gathering. Tonga’s small and closely connected society allows for strong “street intelligence,” as many people are linked through schools, churches and sports groups.
However, Turner said the challenge lies in consolidating this information into a nationwide intelligence picture. Tonga Police are working with Australian counterparts to improve intelligence systems and introduce new technology.
Turner plans to travel to Australia in the coming months to meet with task forces and sign memorandums of understanding with partner agencies. He also intends to send Tongan officers to work alongside Australian drug task forces to build skills and strengthen relationships.
