Packets of an illicit drug, suspected to be Methamphetamine, along with a rifle and ammunition were seized by Tonga Police after a gunshot was fired from a rental car early Saturday morning, November 5

Three men were arrested and charged regarding the incident. Tonga Police stated to day that a gun was fired from a rental car, where live ammunitions and 24.14 gram of illicit drugs, suspected to be methamphetamine, were later intercepted by Tonga Police.

An initial report was made to police by a member of the public who had heard the gunshot made into the open air from the rental car at around 3:00am.

A patrolling police officer from Mu’a Police heard the report about the gunshot, and saw the rental car moving on Taufa’ahau Road. He followed it back to Nuku'alofa where a Police response intercepted the vehicle at Havelu, opposite ‘Api Mataka, where one .22 rifle, 31 x .22 live ammunition rounds, five ammunition shells and 24.41 grams of illicit drugs suspected to be methamphetamine, were seized from inside the car.

Three men have been charged with possession of an illegal firearm and illicit drugs are to appear at the Magistrate’s Court on November 14.

One of the accused a 40-year-old man from Tu'atakilangi remained in custody, while the other two, a 30-year-old man from Folaha and 36-year-old from Fo'ui were released on bail today pending their court hearing.

Chief Superintendent Tevita Fifita said the quick and timely response by police had helped to ensure public safety. "It was great that drugs and a firearm were removed from our community because it could have caused harm to others.

 “We are urging members of the public who have any information on illegal drug use and supply or the illegal possession of firearms to contact their local police station,” he said.

No one was hurt or reported to be injured as a result of the gunshot.