A 27-year-old man has been charged with murder in relation to the death of his 17-year-old first cousin whom he allegedly struck on the neck with an axe at a home in Neiafu, Vava'u early this morning June 18.

Superintendent Netane Falakiseni,Officer in Charge at the Vava'u Police Station, said the incident that happened at around 6:00am, had resulted in the death of a young man.

He said the accused had threatened his sister when she returned home early this morning.

"The accused was standing at the door of their house holding an axe when his sister returned and he asked where she went. She screamed for help and their first cousin who lived there, came out of the house to help. The victim made several attempts to take the axe from the accused and at one point his feet got caught where he fell down," said the Superintendent. It was alleged that at this time the suspect struck the deceased on the neck causing his death.

He said when the police arrived at the scene they found the victim's body outside the house, while the accused locked himself inside the house but police managed to open the door and arrested him.

The accused, who has not been named, is remanded in police custody is expected to appear at the Magistrate's Court today.