A young man (20) from Fua'amotu died yesterday, from injuries he suffered in a car crash on the main highway at Tofoa in the early hours of Wednesday morning, December 27. His name has not been released by Tonga Police.

They reported that his car crashed into a fence and breadfruit tree off Taufa’ahau Road at Tofoa at around 1:15am on 27 December. He died yesterday at Vaiola Hospital after mid-day.

Police Deputy Commissioner Pelenatita Vaisuai alleged that speed and alcohol were factors in the crash. "Our condolences to the family of this young man who made a decision that cost him his life."

Road toll

The death takes the road toll to six this year, much lower than last year’s figure of 18. Although the road toll has dropped significantly this year, Police say the loss of one life is one too many.

Deputy Commissioner Vaisuai is urging members of the public to drive responsibly.

"Let's not add to this number," she said.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility. We rely on everyone to make good decisions on the road to prevent further road trauma by checking your speed and avoiding alcohol. Arrange for a sober driver or a taxi if you decide to drink. Let's care for each other and avoid putting innocent lives in danger."

Police are continuing to carry out operation Saafi during this festive season to reinforce prevention measures with more police and regular patrols of key target areas. This operation involves removing drunks from public places to prevent reoffending, along with road safety measures such as spot checks and alcohol breath testing to stop further crashes on roads due to speeding and drunk driving.