Ten men have been arrested for unlawfully making homebrew beer to sell, as well as growing cannabis plants and possession of an unlicensed firearm, found during a search warrant executed by Tonga Police at a plantation in Niutoua yesterday, December 22.

The arrests were made during Operation Vi which began on 21 December in Tongatapu for the holiday period.

Police arrested the owner of the plantation and nine others in connection with the making of the homebrew beer (hopi) seizing five barrels, 20 cannabis plants, one .22 rifle and three pieces of ammunition.

Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said this was the first arrest made in this annual operation aimed to inspect and patrol public areas, festive celebrations, and national events while remaining accountable to public needs.

He said Operation Vi operates together with the current Operation Safe Streets that patrols roads and communities in order to reduce alcohol-fueled crimes in Tongatapu.

"This operation aims to ensure that the public is safe together with their properties during the Christmas season."

All Police stations in Tonga are working and in full operation during the holidays.

They will enforce law and order in the public areas, transportation and prevent consuming alcohol when driving and in public areas, said the Acting Chief Superintendent.