Firearms imported with over 15,000 rounds of ammunitions with no permits, were seized in the three months from July to September 2025, following x-ray scanning and physical examinations by Customs Officers in Tonga. 

The items were imported by seven consignees (five men and two women) and arrived into Tonga from various countries, including Australia and the United States of America.

The Ministry of Revenue and Customs Tonga, reported that the seized items were mainly ammunitions, totalling over 15,000 rounds and two double-edged knives.

A man from Tatakamotonga, aged 77, had one rifle and 1000 ammunitions seized. Another man from Tatatakamotonga, aged 59, had 1276 Rifle ammunitions seized. 

A total of 5445 ammunitions was seized by custom officers from male aged 65 of Manuka, and a male aged 64 of ‘Alaki.

A female aged 39, from Neiafu had 1371 ammunitions disposed.

Another female aged 44 from Tokomololo had  items of 1 BB Gun and 6000 ammunitions seized.

From Fasi, a male aged 37, had 2 double-edged knives seized.

The weapons have since been transferred to Tonga Police and Police investigations continue to be assisted by the Ministry of Revenue and Customs.

Tobacco

During the same period, a few consignments of cigarettes with excess allowance from China were intercepted thorough Customs inspections.

Ten Chinese nationals had their cigarettes seized, seven had 80 sleeves of excess cigarettes and three with 49 packs.

The seized cigarettes are being kept under Customs control for further legal actions and destruction.