By Linny Folau

The murder of a respected Tonga Red Cross communications officer Polikalepo Kefu (41) on Saturday morning has shocked his colleagues and friends, who paid tribute to him today as a “shining star” and selfless, tireless humanitarian and human rights advocate.

His body was found on a beach in Lapaha, Tongatapu on Saturday Morning, May 1, Tonga Police confirmed.

A 27-year-old man has been charged with  his murder. The accused who was living in Halaleva (originally from Fungamisi, Vava'u) surrendered himself to Police on Saturday night. He is remanded in custody to appear at the Magistrate’s Court.

Deputy Police Commissioner Tevita Vailea said today the body of the victim was found on shore at a beach in Lapaha after he was assaulted in a violent attack that occurred, allegedly after a night out on Friday, April 30. Poli was from Lapaha.

He urged social media users not to circulate misinformation surrounding the death.

“Police are aware of misleading information circulating on social media claiming knowledge of a person responsible for Mr Kefu’s alleged murder. That information is inaccurate and we ask the public to respect his family during this difficult time,” he said.

"This is a tragic event, and our thoughts are with Mr Kefu’s family, friends and wider community."

The Police investigation is continuing into the circumstances surrounding this case, and no other details were released at this stage.

Shining star

Poli, as he was known to colleagues and friends, had worked for many years as Dissemination and Communication Officer with the Tonga Red Cross Society. He was President of the Tonga Leitis Association.

A statement from the Tonga Red Cross Society today expressed heartfelt grief and sorrow over the loss of their staff member.

“Poli was a shining star of Red Cross in Tonga, the Pacific, and globally, and was a tireless and selfless humanitarian and human rights advocate. His dedication to volunteerism, and ensuring equality for all will be remembered and cherished,” said Tonga Secretary General Sione Taumoefolau.

He said that since 2014 Poli was the Dissemination and Communication Officer with Tonga Red Cross Society, though he shouldered additional responsibilities as the National Society’s focal point for Youth, International Humanitarian Law and Restoring Family Links.

In addition, Poli was active across the region in the Asia Pacific Migration network, the Gender and Diversity Network and the Pacific Youth Network.

“Poli has a global community of colleagues and friends who mourn his death and who are holding his family in our thoughts at this time of deep sorrow and loss.

"In acknowledging and celebrating the significant legacy Poli leaves within the Humanitarian Movement, we are reminded of his leadership, his positivity and his passionate pursuit of a voice for all," Sione said.

Positive energy

At the same time, Tonga Leitis Association said as their President, Poli was a selfless humanitarian and a tireless advocate for the rights of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.

"We vehemently hope that those responsible will be swiftly brought to justice. In these dark and troubling times, we are reminded of Poli's light and positive energy, and we [are] encouraged knowing that this is when we are most needed to continue our work."