More than 20 people were arrested by Tonga Police, in relation to illicit drugs and drink driving, in a combined operation over the weekend in Nuku'alofa.

The Drug Enforcement Taskforce, Traffic Unit, Community Safety Team, Detector Dog Unit, Forensic and the Tactical Response Group targeted drug dealers who sold drugs from vehicles as well as getting drunk drivers off the road. 

This was carried out by having traffic checkpoints strategically placed within the Nuku’alofa area from October 18-19. 

Deputy Police Commissioner Pelenatita Fe’ao Vaisuai said today, 16 people were arrested for drunken driving, eight for illicit drugs related offences, one for possession of stolen property and one for possession of intoxicating liquor. 

Police seized 1.94 grams of methamphetamine, 1.4 grams of cannabis, 0.35 grams of cocaine, drug utensils, one bottle of home brew and stolen building supplies. 

At the same time, 71 traffic tickets were issued to drivers for other traffic violations

"These arrests show that those who are seeking to profit from the harm these drugs cause can continue to expect to be targeted by Police. Drugs have no place in our community, they destroy the lives of users, harming our children and communities. We hope these arrests will bring some reassurance to the community.”

Deputy Commissioner Vaisuai also reiterated the importance of road safety as everyone’s responsibility.

“We rely on everyone to make good decisions on the road to prevent further road trauma by avoiding alcohol and check speed,” she said.

The suspects arrested have been charged and remained in police custody to appear at the Magistrate's Court this week.