The Prime Minister's Office has referred one of its employees to the Public Service Commission for disciplinary action after police confirmed the staff member’s arrest in connection with the possession of illicit drug utensils, officials stated today.
In a media release dated 25 February, the PMO said the Ministry of Police informed it on 20 February that the employee and three other individuals had been taken into custody. Authorities indicated that investigations remain ongoing and that a formal report will be submitted in due course.
The Prime Minister’s Office said it had taken “immediate administrative action” and formally referred the matter as a serious breach of discipline under the Public Service (Disciplinary Procedures) Regulations. The PMO emphasized that it would continue to observe all due process requirements while the investigation proceeds.
“The conduct under investigation is inconsistent with the standards expected of public officials and does not reflect the values upheld by the Prime Minister's Office or the Government of Tonga,” the statement said.
No further details about the employee or the circumstances of the arrest were disclosed.
Officials said appropriate measures would be taken as necessary to maintain accountability and public confidence in government institutions once the police investigation is concluded.
