Police Drug Squad head dies suddenly [1]
Monday, June 23, 2014 - 16:26
Inspector Latu Lavaki (51) who headed the Tonga Police Drug Squad, died from a suspected heart attack on Friday night June 13, at Vaiola Hospital, after collapsing during a work dinner at the Vakaloa Beach Resort.
Police reported today that he collapsed around at a dinner which was held to conclude a two-day Retreat for the Police Criminal Investigation Unit.
The Police Commissioner Grant O’Fee said today that Inspector Lavaki was an outstanding police officer.
“One of his last jobs was the excellent scene examination of one of the most serious crimes committed over recent years in Tonga. I have seen his dedication first hand and it has been a privilege to serve with him.”
Inspector Lavaki, from Kolofo‘ou, entered the Tonga Police in 1985.
He is survived by his wife Mele and children.
His funeral was held at the Takaunove Cemetary in Fasi on Saturday, June 21.