Five people have been arrested and charged in relations to drug busts at different locations in Tongatapu and Vava’u over the last couple of weeks.

Det. Acting Deputy Commissioner Halatoa Taufa said today that police arrested a 27-year-old man from Ha’alaufuli, Vava'u for possession of cocaine, which weighed 28.69 grams, on Friday 22 April.

The cocaine in two packs were found inside a light bulb wrapped with a white cloth at the suspect’s residence. 

On 28 April, police raided a residence at Hala'ovave on Tongatapu.

He said three men aged 17, 20 and 36 years were arrested with 12 packs of methamphetamine (2.12 grams), five packs of cannabis (1.52 grams), cash over $300 pa’anga, and drug utensils. 

They are remanded in custody until 9 May, after appearing at the Fasi Magistrate's Court on 28 April.

On 20 April a 47-year-old man was arrested at his residence in Vaini. He was found with three packs of methamphetamine, cash over $2,500 pa’anga and drug utensils. 

The Acting Commissioner said this suspect chewed the three packs of methamphetamine and spat into a half empty Sprite bottle before Police could seize them.

“Anyone who destroys or even attempts or helps to destroy illicit drugs or anything capable of being used as evidence in drug related cases is liable by law upon conviction to imprisonment for up to 15-years.” 

In the meantime, Police Drugs Enforcement Taskforce  had made more arrests over the last two weeks related to illicit drugs.

If any member of the public has information on drug related activities he urged them to contact the Police on  (676) 740-1660 or 922.