A new Tonga Police Motorcycle Squad will be deployed to enhance Police capabilities in escort and close protection duties, as well as in traffic and road safety enforcement.

The third Police Motorcycle Squad received their certificates this month, after completing a three-weeks Level 1 Motorcycle Training Program.

Police Commissioner Shane McLennan congratulated the trainees for having the courage and commitment to successfully complete the training, knowing that handling of a motorcycle requires special skills, physically and mentally to minimize risks of injury. 

He also acknowledged the New Zealand Government's assistance, which has enabled the upskilling of these 13 men and one female police officers.

The Police Motorcycle Training Program was assisted by New Zealand Police with the provision of six BMW Police motorcycles.

Meanwhile, the training is the third of its kind run by Tonga Police Motorcycle Trainers led by Inspector ‘Eliseni Soakai, and assisted by Sergeant Uraia Palu, Sergeant Kusitafu Sonasi, and retired Chief Inspector of Police Ula Matatoa.

Sergeant Sonasi in his address reminded the squad their three basic skills of bike control, mental skills to recognize potential harm, and self control skills.