The three men arrested in relation to the armed robberies at four Chinese retail shops in Nuku'alofa, have been further remanded in police custody until March.

Taniela Pohahau, Rodney Toki and Tuiaki Pahulu appeared at the Fasi Magistrate's Court on Monday, January 18.

Police Prosecution said today, all three were further detained, while the investigation continued.

They are expected to appear again at the lower court on March 15.

The accused, aged between 22-26 years, were arrested earlier last week, and charged with armed robbery. 

The armed robberies occurred at retail shops in Houmakelikao, Kapeta, Tofoa and Ma'ufanga.

Tonga Police responded to incidents involving two men wearing masks who entered the shops armed with a machete and a piece of metal.

Cash was also taken from the shops along with other goods and the alleged offenders fled in a black Nissan cube.

Police also recovered some of the stolen goods, cash as well as the machete.