The number of murders and suicides cases in Tonga this year, has already surpassed the total figures for 2008 said the Acting Police Commander, Sione Talanoa this morning.

Sione said that the death of a four-year-old Popua boy in last week brought up the number of murder cases from January to September to six, comparing with five during the whole of last year.

Suicides cases have also risen to nine this year, after a 71-year-old man was found dead on September 11 at Tu'anekivale in Vava'u. An inquest into the death confirmed that the victim died from hanging.

Last year's suicide deaths totalled seven from January to December.

The Acting Deputy Police Commander emphasised that the increase of deaths from the serious crimes of murder and suicide required immediate attention.

"We ask all stakeholders in the Tongan society to work together with us in addressing these crimes," he said.