Fifteen people have been arrested and charged in relation to drugs busts at different locations, during the lockdown due to COVID-19. 

One drug arrest was made in 'Esia, ‘Eua., with the others made in Nuku'alofa and the western and eastern districts from February 2-19.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Halatoa Taufa said today, 13 men and two women aged between 24-60 had been charged for possession of illicit drugs.

A total of 5.83 grams of methamphetamine and 6.44 grams of cannabis were seized from these arrests.

The largest amount was 5.15 grams of methamphetamine, seized at a home in Havelu, in a raid carried out by the Drugs Taskforce on February 15. Two men aged 46 and 41 were arrested and charged in relation to this seizure, he said.

Some of the other drugs arrests resulted from reports to Police by community patrols. 

The A/Deputy Commissioner said, although COVID-19 is a challenge, the Drugs Taskforce remained vigilant and were carrying out normal operations targeting illicit drugs.They are wearing protective gear and other COVID-19 safe practices, he said.