Police arrested 230 people during ‘Operation Finau’ over the Christmas and New Year holidays from 21 December 2020 to 4 January 2021.

Of the 230 arrests, 20 arrests were in relation to serious crimes (assault, theft, and housebreaking), 143 arrests in relation to minor crimes (drunk in public places, disorderly behaviour), 44 arrests in relation to traffic violations (drunk driving and speeding) and 21 arrests in relation to Domestic Violence (Police Safety Order). 

The number of arrests have increased compared to 177 arrests in the previous year.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Tevita Vailea said the recent operation was to prevent crime and protect the public, remove drunks from public places, and hold liquor licensees to account when licence conditions were breached.

"Criminal behaviour will not be tolerated and Police will hold people to account for their disorderly behaviour."

While there were no road fatalities during the Christmas and New Year holidays, the overall road fatality in 2020 was 8, an increase from 4 in 2019, but lower than the 22 road fatalities in 2018.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. We rely on everyone to make good decisions on the road to prevent further road trauma by avoiding alcohol and checking their speed.” 

Vailea acknowledged the commitment of police staff who worked throughout the holidays to ensure peace and public safety was maintained. He also acknowledged and thanked members of the public for timely sharing of information and their valued support to the Tonga Police. 

“We are encouraging members of the public to contact us if they are concerned about the behaviour of people in their communities.”

A total of 278 police staff were deployed during the Christmas and New Year Operation. 

Drug arrests

The Police Drug Enforcement Taskforce also arrested 18 people (15 men and 3 women) from 11 different locations on Tongatapu between 16 - 31 December 2020. They seized 572.68 grams of cannabis, 40.53 grams of methamphetamine, $6,400.00 pa’anga in cash, 645 bullets (.22) and drug utensils.

All 18 accused have been charged accordingly and are to appear in court at a later date. 

A/Deputy Commissioner Vailea said that these arrests showed 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 the users, harming our children and our communities. We hope these arrests will bring some reassurance to the community.” 

Police encouraged anyone who may have information about drug related offending to contact them on telephone 7401 660.