Results for Illicit Drugs

Kaufusi Moala (30) was sentenced today to six-months imprisonment for possession of 0.26 grams of methamphetamine. The sentence was fully suspended on conditions.

A total of 24 people have been arrested and charged, to date, in relation to the estimated 14 kilograms of cocaine seized in Vava‘u. More cocaine was seized in the latest three arrests in Vava'u and Tongatapu.

A total of 21 people have to date been arrested and charged in relation to the estimated 14 kilograms of cocaine seized in Vava’u, after two people were arrested at Ta'anea, Vava'u on August 23.

Siosaia Fifita (33) was sentenced to two-years imprisonment for possession of 2.36 grams of methamphetamine and 3.14 grams of cannabis. He was caught after Tonga Police received information he was driving around Nuku'alofa selling illicit drugs.

Sosefo, aka Sione Poteki, who was driving around Tongatapu armed with a gun, while in possession of illicit drugs for sale was sentenced to three-years seven-months imprisonment.

Misivina Tatakamotonga was sentenced to seven-years eight-months imprisonment for possession of illicit drugs, including 99.47 grams of methamphetamine. The judge said it was gravely concerning that the defendant's true activities were not reflected in the indictment and there appeared to be scant investigation into the dealer list. He urged the investigating authorities “to reflect on what lines of enquiry can properly be pursued."

The three foreign nationals who were arrested and charged in relation to a cocaine haul in Vava‘u, were today released on bail, at the Magistrate's Court in Neiafu. Robin and Brenda Cox, and Calvin Manuceau will be called to appear in court again on August 17.

Four of the seven accused in Vava'u, including three foreign nationals were denied bail at the Magistrate's Court in Neiafu on August 9. They remain in police custody as investigations continue. Meanwhile, Tonga Police made more arrests last week in relation to the cocaine packages that washed up on Vava'u beaches recently.

More arrests have been made in relation to the cocaine haul in Vava'u last week. Matangi Tonga understands today the latest arrests included that of a foreign national in Tonga.