War on drugs requires leadership and courage [1]
Friday, October 25, 2019 - 18:48
Alfred Pousini was awarded the Baton of Honour (Dux) during a graduation ceremony for Tonga Police Recruit Wing 46 on October 23, at the Police Headquarters in Longolongo.
Lord Tangi-'o-Vaonukonuka, Wing Patron, awarded certificates to 30 new probationary constables, including 15 men and 15 women.
Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell in congratulating the new recruits said they would become Police Officers in a rapidly changing world.
“My concerns as Commissioner of Police are the presence of drugs in our communities and the importance of police working with the communities to hold those who sell drugs to our people to account.”
He said, in a previous message by King Tupou VI, his concerns were clear, that one of the biggest challenges facing Tonga is the use of illicit drugs.
War on drugs
Tonga Police is serious about the war against drugs, said the Commissioner.
There had been 344 arrests since April 2018 and he commended the leadership and courage of the Drugs Task Force, TRG and Detector Dog Unit in holding criminals to account for selling drugs to our children.
Other serious crimes in 2018, recorded 10 homicides , 21 road fatalities, 396 housebreaking incidents.
So far this year, 2019, there have been three homicides, three road fatalities and 153 housebreaking incidents.
“We must have a national plan, work together and get on with it. There is no time for sideshows and distractions. We must remain resolute and maintain a united front to meet the challenges that confront us as a nation.”
“It is important that we have a police service that the public can trust,” he said.
"I require you to act with integrity, professionalism and honesty at all times. You must guard your reputation and that of the Tonga Police at all times, off duty and on duty."
Top students
- First Runner up - Fisi'ifiusati Naufahu
- Second Runner up - Manase Fifita
- Best Overall Classroom Subject/Best Woman Police, Leadership & Personnel Assessment - Uikelotu Tu'umoto'oa
- Most Progressive Student - Jose Jean Hamala
- Overall Best Outdoor Subject - Sosaia Vungakoto Hala'ufia
- Overall Leadership and Course Captain of Recruit 46 - Toketa Tonga Tu'ivai