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Police and Crime

119 drivers charged with alcohol-related offences in May

Nuku'alofa, Tonga

Tonga Police officer conducting DUI operation in Nuku'alofa. 29 May 2026. Photo: Tonga Police.

Tonga Police say that a total of 119 drivers were charged with alcohol-related driving offences during the month of May 2026, as authorities move to improve road safety and reduce alcohol-related traffic offences throughout Tonga.

A Driving Under the Influence (DUI) alcohol enforcement operation on Friday, 29 May 2026, alone, resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals, (20 males and 7 females).

During May 2026, Tonga Police stopped and tested a total of 3,147 drivers as part of the DUI enforcement activities.

Of those tested, 2,899 drivers or 92.1% recorded no alcohol in their system, while 248 drivers or 7.9% returned positive alcohol readings.

Among the drivers who tested positive:

  • 129 recorded alcohol readings below the legal limit
  • 37 received Traffic Infringement Notices
  • 82 were arrested for exceeding the legal alcohol limit

Overall, 119 drivers were charged with alcohol-related driving offences during the month, comprising 84 males and 35 females.

Tonga Police commend the majority of drivers who complied with the law and made responsible choices.

"However, impaired driving remains a serious risk to all road users," Tonga Police noted.

Police continue to urge drivers to never drive after consuming alcohol.

Enforcement operations will continue across Tongatapu to help ensure the safety of all road users and reduce preventable road trauma.

Tonga Police officer conducting DUI operation in Nuku'alofa. 29 May 2026. Photo: Tonga Police.