A Recruit Prison Officer of His Majesty’s Prison, Hu’atolitoli, was arrested, suspended and is under a criminal investigation for alleged possession of illicit drugs.

An illicit drug and utensil was found in a vehicle in Hu’atolitoli Prison that allegedly belongs to or was used by a recruit prison officer, on 5 August 2024.

HM Prisons stated, “On the same date, a prison officer was informed that a vehicle in Hu’atolitoli Prison belonging to or used by a Recruit Prison Officer had utensil in it associated with the use of illicit drugs.”

“The Senior prison officer informed Hu’atolitoli Prison’s Officer in Charge, of the allegation that was made.

“The vehicle in question was then searched where not only was a utensil found but also a packet containing illicit drug.

The items were seized and the recruit prison officer was arrested and detained by HM Prisons, the case was handed over to Tonga Police for further criminal investigation.

As a result of this case, the Officer in Charge made the following directive for the security and good order of Hu'atolitoli Prison, under section 93 of the Prisons Act. with effect as of 09 August 2024:

1. All vehicles owned or used by off-duty prison officers must get permission from the Officer in Charge to be parked in Hu’atolitoli Prison while they are absent from the station; and
2. All vehicles parked in Hu’atolitoli Prison without good reason and/or without the permission of the Officer in Charge may be subject to be searched.

HM Prisons stated that they were currently investigating other prison officers who are suspected of illicit drug offences.

“The public is encouraged to report any information about a prison officer involved in the unlawful possession, manufacture, cultivation, use and/or supply of illicit drugs to the Officer in Charge,” they stated.