Twenty-two people were today sentenced to a range of fines between $300 to $1100 pa'anga each for breaching the national lockdown notice, at the Mu'a Magistrate's Court. Another 20 accused will be tried next week.

The Crown Prosecution said these were offences made under sections 38 and 39 of the Emergency Management Act. 

Twenty-two pleaded guilty and were sentenced to various fines. Sixteen were fined $1,000 pa’anga each, one fined $1100, one fined $800, three fined $700 each and one fined $300 pa’anga.

Of the remaining 20 accused, 12 pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

Their matters have been adjourned for trial starting on Tuesday, April 21.

Four accused failed to appear at the lower court and arrest warrants have been issued against them.

Four other criminal matters relating to the lockdown were adjourned to April 22.

Previously on April 14 at the Fasi Magistrate's Court, three men were fined $1,000 pa’anga each for obstruction of an authorised officer and drunkenness in a public place, during the lockdown.

Arrests were made during curfew hours (8:00pm - 6:00am).

Meanwhile, similar criminal matters for Nukunuku are expected to be called on April 16.

Tonga Police have to date made 300 plus arrests nationwide, since their operation began last month, when the state of emergency was declared.