Twenty-eight recruits who are expected to graduate from the Tonga Police College in October, were reminded that the rule of law must be adhered to in their line of work at all times.

The 10 women and 18 men make up recruit wing 45 in which, 'Alisi Taumoepeau a former Minister of Jutsice is Wing Patron.

During a session on July 19, she reminded recruits on the importance of the rule of law to police work.

"Police officers are at the frontline and forefront of fighting crime. Your mission in keeping our communities safe and that protection is built on the rule of law," she said.

"The rule of law must be adhered to and guide police officers in their line of work. That is a major part of you building the confidence of the public in what you do and ensuring professionalism in policing.”

Wing patron is a recent initiative and this is the second recruit wing to have a patron, whose role is to become a mentor and encourage the young recruits during their six-months training course.

After graduation, recruits would be posted to various districts within Tongatapu as part of a probationary period, before deployment elsewhere.

Tonga Police currently has 443 officers and staff.