Paula Naitoko (59) is the Senior Customs Officer charged in relation to a major seizure of drugs by Tonga Customs Officers on April 23 at the Queen Salote Wharf.

The accused appeared at the Fasi Magistrate’s Court today Monday, May 6.

Police Prosecution submitted for the case to be adjourned to be called again on June 10.

The accused was initially ordered by the Supreme Court to be remanded in police custody for a month, until May 31.

On April 26, Tonga Police reported its Drug Enforcement Taskforce estimated the seizure to have a street value of over $6 million pa’anga.

Police stated the drugs consisted of 6.7 kilograms of methamphetamine, 625.29 grams of cannabis, and 107.29 grams of cannabis oil, which were allegedly smuggled into Tonga through a shipment from the United States of America. 

Also found in the shipment were illegal firearms, an M4 Assault rifle, two Glock pistols and a handgun with relevant ammunition.

The accused was charged with nine charges under the Illicit Drugs Control Act for engaging with others to import illicit drugs, and also under the Arms and Ammunition Act for abetting the importation of illegal firearms and ammunition.