Results for Illicit Drugs

Three people have been arrested in two separate drugs busts that seized methamphetamine and cannabis on Tongatapu this week.

Kaufana Maile (36) was sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment for possession of illicit drugs including 2.12 grams of methamphetamine at a home in Hala’ovave, in 2022.

Moala ‘Ikani (31), Nukutefua Teu (36) and Tevita Pasi (20) who pleaded guilty to charges, including possession of methamphetamine and cannabis seized at Hofoa last month, received suspended sentences at the Fasi Magistrate's Court.

‘Uhila Tu’i (34) was sentenced today to 33-months imprisonment, on charges including carrying a firearm to resist arrest, when he shot at and missed a police officer during the search of a home, at Hala'ovave, Tongatapu, in 2021. The Chief Justice said the accused could have been charged with attempted murder.

Siu Holani (30) was sentenced to 21-months imprisonment for possession of illicit drugs, including 1.68 grams of methamphetamine and 5.57 grams of cannabis.

A 31-year-old man from Ha'asini was arrested after a police pursuit, after he was alleged to have been distributing illicit drugs. Two others, including a 14-year-old teen were arrested later.

A 25-year-old man was arrested in relation to the seizure of illicit drugs, including 1.81 grams of methamphetamine at a bush allotment, on 23 February.

A man and a woman in their 30s were arrested in relation to the seizure of 24.92 grams of methamphetamine and cannabis in a car at Veitongo in Tongatapu, over the weekend.

A total of 3.2 tonnes of cocaine estimated to be worth more than half a billion dollars, intercepted by New Zealand authorities floating in the Pacific Ocean, is one of their single biggest seizures of illegal drugs. The unidentified location was described as “north east off New Zealand, six-days sailing in distance and in international waters,” they told a press conference today.