Criminal prosecutions in Tonga's Supreme Court since the beginning of 2018 have been increasingly drug-related cases.

Out of a total of 930 criminal prosecutions, 529 were drug related, while 123 were arms and ammunition prosecutions.

These figures were presented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, James Lutui from the Attorney General's Office, at a National Symposium for Illicit Drugs on October 6.

From 2018 to 2019, drug related prosecutions increased by 183% from 60 to 170, and then increased again by 23% to 209 in 2020.

In 2021, drug related prosecutions are currently 73, while 17 are for Class A (methamphetamine, cocaine) drugs under one gram.

He said the work to combat illicit drugs was not just a problem for police, customs or prosecutors, “This is a problem for all of society.”

Forfeited cash in Supreme Court Prosecutions

At the same time, forfeited cash to the Crown in 2020 and 2021 were all drug related, he said.

“The money is used for law enforcement, especially for police.”

He said spending started last year on three vehicles for drug operations, repairing vehicles seriously damaged in drug operations,  purchasing 36 body armours, and printing the National Illicit Drugs Policy.

The last deposit of forfeited cash was $31,844.80 in May 2021. The current balance is $64,586.53.