Tonga Police trained in drug identification [1]
Monday, November 25, 2019 - 19:41
Seven Tongan police officers underwent training in cannabis identification, aimed to build Tonga Police expertise in identifying illicit drugs.
Two scientists from the New Zealand Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) carried out the training at the University of the South Pacific Tonga Campus, on November 18-22.
Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell, said the training focused on two different techniques to identify cannabis, which is microscopic (botanical) examination of the plant and a chemical test.
The chemical test, which has never been used in Tonga, allowed officers to confirm identification, particularly for smaller, fragmented plant matter not easily identifiable using a microscope. It also dealt with the preparation of professional reports.
A member of the Attorney General’s Office discussied current legislation and assistied trainees in the delivery of professional expert opinion evidence in court.
“This is part of the Tonga Police Illicit Drugs Strategy to be more self sufficient in terms of expertise on drug identification and to assist reduce lengthy adjournments of drug cases in court."
The Commissioner thanked ESR, and the NZ Police through Tonga Police Development Program for the support and the caliber of the scientists sent to teach police staff.
Kevan Walsh, ESR’s Forensic Manager said, the training introduced forensic procedures and quality control when examining suspected cannabis.
"Once the officers are trained, they will be able to examine and identify cannabis and will gain skills to give evidence in court as expert witnesses."
Police will also start a trial using presumptive equipment to assist in identification of methamphetamine and hard drugs.
The training package was designed by ESR specifically for Tonga Police, as part of an ongoing partnership.
Consultation
In September a consultation was held with the Judiciary, Tonga Law Society and the Attorney General’s Office in an attempt to take ownership of analysis in Tonga, and assist the courts in presenting facts and expert witnesses during trial process.