Six men arrested with cannabis and firearms have been charged after the execution of multiple search warrants at three different locations in Tongatapu.

The searches were carried out at Tu'atakilangi, Vaololoa and Hofoa as part of a police investigation into the housebreaking and theft of Lords mobile store, Maile Taha on March 1.

Stolen property included cannabis seeds, drug paraphernalia, a handgun with live ammunition and cash.

Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said it was a great result for the community to be able to remove the drugs, firearms and stolen property from the hands of criminals, and reinforce safety of the community.

“The community can help stop the availability of illegal drugs and firearms by reporting suspicious activity to police. By working together, we can make a difference and stop the crime and social harm associated with this illegal activity.”

According to Tonga Police, drug arrests have gone up significantly in the last five years, with 31 registered cases in 2013, 49 in 2014, 114 in 2015, 97 in 2016 and 114 last year.

Police encourages anyone who may have any information relating to drug related offending to contact them. You can do so in confidence by calling 23-417 or 25-147, he said.

The six men are remanded in police custody to appear at the Magistrate's Court next week.