A large haul of cannabis plants and seeds were seized by Tonga Police on 4 May, at six different bush allotments in Fou’i and Matahau in Tongatapu.

The Acting Police Commissioner ‘Unga Fa’aoa said 3,222 cannabis plants with more than 20,000 cannabis seeds, and six cannabis pot plants were seized from five locations in Fo'ui and one in Matahau.

In addition, two firearms (.22 rifles), ammunition, cash and electronic devices were seized during the operation.

Eight men between the ages of 16-42 from Fanga, Matahau, Fo‟ui and Sopu have been arrested.

He said evidence and prosecution files are being progressed, therefore, details on charges involved are unavailable at this time.

This is part of continuing efforts to target the people who supply drugs to communities in Tonga.

“Tonga Police is committed to disrupt and detect the supply of drugs, preventing the harm this illegal activity causes. It only takes one call to Police to stop crime and the availability of drugs in your community.”

They said that the Police rely on members of the public to pass on any information about drug cultivation, manufacture or dealing, and that information about drug offences can be made to police stations or anonymously by phoning 23417 or 25147.