Police are concerned with a significant amount of firearms and ammunition that have been smuggled into Tonga and the risks they pose to community safety, a Deputy Police Commissioner warned today, after more than 500 live bullets, along with 228.82 grams of cannabis and one .22 rifle were seized by Tonga Police on April 30, at different locations in Tongatapu.

More than 500 live bullets, 228.82 grams of cannabis and one .22 rifle were seized by Tonga Police on April 30, at different locations in Tongatapu.

The Police Drug Enforcement Taskforce have arrested four people with the illicit drug, firearm, ammunition and cash from Vaini and Nuku'alofa areas.

Deputy Police Commissioner Pelenatita Fe’ao Vaisuai said today, those arrested included a man (33) from Tofoa, a man (40) from Fua’amotu, a woman (23) from Kolofo’ou and a man (33) from Vaini.

The accused have been charged variously with possession of illicit drugs and for possession of firearm and ammunition without license.They are remanded in police custody to appear at the lower court on a later date, she said.

“Police are concerned with the significant amount of firearms and ammunition that have been smuggled into the country and the risks they pose to community safety,” she said.

The Deputy Commissioner urged members of the public to come forward with any information that will help with police investigations.