Human remains found in a bush area of Tongatapu yesterday have been identified as 'Alekisio Taufatahi Kautai (55), a man who lived by himself at Lapaha, Tonga Police today confirmed today.

The body had been undiscovered for for about a week and a half. An inquest ruled for the remains to be buried immediately due the state of decomposition.

Police said his relatives came forward with information, including description of his clothes, which confirmed his identity. The relatives also reported that they had not seen 'Alekisio for about two-weeks and did not realise he was missing until they heard the police public appeal for information on the unidentified remains found at the bush allotment.

‘Alekisio who comes from Lapaha was living by himself in a home at the village. His remains were released to relatives today, Thursday 14 July.