A forensic grade data training course is being held for Tonga Police investigators to improve not only their technical capability but that of the region in the fight against crimes, from 14-17 February.

[Universal Forensic Extraction Devices are small, portable computers that extract the entire contents of a cellphone. Bypassing passwords and other security features, they download personal information in seconds, wirelessly or through a cable. They can also extract detailed location files.]

The British High Commission in partnership with Australia (via the Australian Federal Police) purchased the forensic grade data extraction devices (cellebrite) in this training for 12 Tonga Police investigators, under the Tonga-Australia Policing Partnership (TAPP).

The course was opened by the British High Commissioner HE Lucy Joyce with the Australia High Commissioner. HE Rachael Moore, at the Tonga Police College in Longolongo.

The cellebrite equipment and training is aimed to significantly expand the capability of Tonga Police in regard to digital forensics, intelligence and evidence capture. Participants were selected from across the island groups in Tonga.

Tonga Police Commissioner Authorized Delegate, Deputy Commissioner Chief of Staff Pelenatita Fe’ao Vaisuai said, organised crimes continued to use digital sophistication to communicate and avoid police detection.

"Technology is changing the nature of crime and as police we need to adapt. Training and use of the Cellebrite system, will close the gap for Tonga Police."

In addition, AFP Digital Forensics examiner Rachael Morton is expected to be in Tonga to monitor and mentor Tonga Police investigators undertake their first forensic examinations utilising the cellebrite device upon completion of the course.

They said the improved capability supports the Tonga Police vision of a safe, secure and crime-free Tonga.