By Katalina Siasau

Domestic violence is on the rise, but a majority of the victims, who are primarily women, are hesitant to press charges against their partners.

In 2023-24, Tonga Police saw an increase in reported domestic violence incidents, with 865 cases in 2023-24 compared to 767 in 2022-23, a recent Police report revealed.

The Manager of the Tonga Police Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), Inspector ‘Anamalia ‘Aho told Matangi Tonga that victims often tolerate violent behavior due to love and fear for their children's well-being.

"They frequently request only a safety order, that police can issue temporarily for two to seven days, depending on the victim's concern."

Inspector ‘Aho noted that victims often endure multiple instances of violence before reporting it, largely because the perpetrators, the husbands, are often the primary income earners.

"Many victims want to press charges, but factors such as deep love and, in many cases, the father's role as the primary breadwinner make it difficult for them to do so."

Insp. 'Aho also noted victims often have a fear of judgement from neighbours and family members.

The DVU collaborates with two centres, the Tonga National Center for Women and Children (TNCWC) and Women and Children Crisis Center (WCCC) who are providing conselling services for victims.

Cases where the perpetrator was involved with alcohol and drugs, and anger, are referred to the Salvation Army, where they have programs like anger management, alcohol and drugs counselling services.

She said it is, however, up to the victims and the perpetrators if they want to turn up to these services, unless mandated by a court order.

Inspector ‘Aho said that most domestic violence incidents occur on weekends.

In 2023-24, Tonga Police saw an increase in reported domestic violence incidents, with 865 cases in 2023-24 compared to 767 in 2022-23.

Meanwhile, their intimate-partner violence (IPV) investigations more than tripled, rising from 114 in 2022-23 to 348 in 2023-24. There was also an even greater increase in sexual violence investigations during the same period.

White Ribbon Day

In November, the DVU will be at ‘Eua with the Tonga Police Band for the White Ribbon Day, international day dedicated to ending violence against women and girls.

The Domestic Violence Unit can be contacted at 7401647 or 922.