By Linny Folau

Eleven people were arrested and charged in the seizure of illicit drugs, cash and drug utensils at different locations in Tongatapu from April 8-11.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Halatoa Taufa of the National Crime and Investigations, said the arrests were at 'Utulau, Lapaha and Ngele'ia.

Six men and a woman, aged 22 to 63-years old, were arrested in a police drugs raid at a residence in 'Utulau.

The Police Drugs Enforcement Taskforce seized from this residence 0.13 grams of methamphetamine, over $4,000 cash in Tongan and US currencies and drug utensils. 

All seven appeared in court on Monday, 11 April and were released on bail, except for a 32-year-old man who remained in police custody until 15 April. 

On April 8, a 21-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman were arrested from a bush allotment in ‘Utulau for possession of drug utensils. Both have been released on bail.

In addition, on Sunday, 10 April one man was arrested with 0.29 grams of cannabis in Lapaha and another was arrested with 0.30 grams in Ngele’ia, as he breached curfew.

“We are concerned that while our people and communities that during these tough times with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, selfish individuals are adding to that burden through non-compliance with curfew restrictions and the continuing supply of drugs to our youth,” he said.

“The Drugs Enforcement Taskforce will continue to bring before the courts those who are illegally involved in drugs. Anyone with information on drug related activities should contact Police on 740-1660 or 922,” he said.