Seven men aged 20-35 were arrested when a police operation seized unlicensed firearms, ammunition and cannabis.

Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said early this morning three search warrants were carried out by the police criminal investigation unit at different locations in Nakolo, on eastern Tongatapu.

The seven were arrested, seizing one firearm and magazine, one air gun and 69 (.22) live ammunition.

All have been charged with a range of firearms and drug-related offfences are expected to appear at the Magistrate’s Court later this week.

“We are committed towards making our community a safe place to be, and where disorder and violence will not be tolerated.”

He said the police were working closely alongside the community to address this behaviour, and he encouraged anyone with information that could assist to get in touch with the nearest police station.