A total of 2665 cannabis plants were uprooted and seized from a bush allotment in Mataika, Vava’u on Monday, September 24 making it Tonga’s largest cannabis bust to date.

Six male accused aged 16-25 who are all from Mataika have been arrested and charged with cultivation of the illicit drug, as investigation continues.

Acting Superintendent Taulango Tapueluelu, Vava’u District Commander said today, they carried out a search warrant at the bush allotment, after receiving information that cannabis was being cultivated in this area.

Police also seized a .22 rifle, 26 live ammunitions and 44 gallons of home brew.

“We would like to acknowledge the assistance of members of the public, which led to the drug seizure yesterday.”

Tonga Police are committed to disrupting the supply of these drugs and preventing the harm this illegal trade supports. Anyone with information to contact us on 922, 23417 or 25147, he said.

Meanwhile, this is Tonga's largest cannabis bust to date. The second largest were 458 cannabis plants uprooted and seized during a police operation in 'Eua in November, 2016.

Police then confirmed that the 458 cannabis plants had an estimated street value of around $200,000 pa’anga.