Raids by Tonga Police Drugs Squad over the past week have resulted in the arrest of 17 people on Tongatapu, allegedly involved with importation, intended sale, and distribution of methamphetamine. In raids on August 9, 13-14,and 17 police seized a total of 6.1 kg kilograms of methamphetamine allegedly imported into Tonga from the United States. A customs officer, a prison officer, a prisoner, two Comanchero gang members and a local businessman, are among the suspects charged.

Tonga Police reported today that these arrests followed recent police operations, in collaboration with the Ministry of Revenue and Customs, investigating the importation, intended sale and distribution of methamphetamine in Tonga, and the laundering of the proceeds by persons and businesses to facilitate the ongoing purchase and import of methamphetamine.

Customs and Prison officers arrested

On 9 August, Tonga Police conducted raids at multiple locations in Tongatapu, which led to the seizure of 2.6 kilograms of methamphetamine imported into Tonga in a crate from the United States.

The raids also led to the arrests of three persons, including a Customs Officer and an officer of HM Prisons, who have been charged with offences in relation to the import.

"Police investigations are still ongoing, but evidence, obtained so far, suggests that the importation of methamphetamine was organised from within prison by a prisoner, who is currently serving a sentence at Hu'atolitoli Prison. Also found during the raids were firearms and ammunition," Tonga Police stated.

Outlaw motorcycle gang

On 13-14 August, the Drugs Squad and other Police units conducted raids at multiple locations in Tongatapu, which resulted in the arrest of four females and nine males between the age of 22-48 years, for illicit drugs offences.

Police seized methamphetamine weighing 3.5 kilograms imported into Tonga in a crate from the United States, eight vehicles, one Harley-Davidson motorcycle, TOP$12,058 in cash, four cash counting machines, 16 mobile phones and other devices, four Comanchero motorcycle gang jackets and drug paraphernalia.

Hofoa

On Saturday 17 August, the Drugs Squad and the Tonga Police Tactical Response Group raided a residence at Hofoa and arrested a male who had just returned to Tonga from the United States. He was arrested for the importation into Tonga of the methamphetamine on 13 August 2024.

All suspects have been charged, including charges in relation to the importation of methamphetamine, the possession of illicit drugs and drug utensils.

Tonga Police reported that two of the persons arrested are alleged to be members of the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang.

Another two of the persons arrested have been specifically charged in relation to a previous seizure by the Drugs Squad, of over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine in April this year.

On 15 August, Police seized a large amount of clothing from a storage unit at Ma'ufanga, that is linked to one of the suspects arrested on 13 August. The clothing consisted of 90 Comanchero t-shirts, hoodie and jacket vests, and 13 Comanchero Patches.

Businessman arrested

On Friday 16 August, Police arrested a prominent local businessman and searched his offices at 'Umusi, Nuku'alofa.

"He has been arrested for money laundering, in relation to his role in facilitating payments of the proceeds from the import and supply of illicit drugs from the Kingdom to drug importers in the United States."

Tonga Police stated that all suspects and seized items are currently in police custody.

"Tonga Police is sending a clear message to organized crime syndicates involved in the illegal importation of drugs and laundering of the proceeds, and OMCGs (Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs): we will not tolerate any illegal activities, and we will do everything in our power to identify, disrupt and bring to justice those involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, and to seize and confiscate the proceeds and assets purchased with the proceeds of crime. We need to strongly remind the public that the illegal import and export of illicit drugs (Class A) can result in life imprisonment."

"Tonga Police would also like to warn the public about the increased presence and illegal activities of the Comanchero OMCG in our community. There is no place in the Kingdom of Tonga for gangs, and those who wish to associate with these types of gangs and their illegal activities. Tonga Police is committed to working together with Customs and other stakeholders in Tonga, and with our international partners, to ensure Tonga is not a haven for criminals and gangs," Police stated today.