Tonga Police will welcome a new leader next week as Commissioner Shane McLennan prepares to conclude his three-year term.
His successor, Geoff Turner, currently a Commander with the Australian Federal Police (AFP), has been approved by His Majesty King Tupou VI and will be sworn in on 12 May 2025.
Commander Turner brings a wealth of international experience to the role.
Born in New Zealand, he began his career in the Royal New Zealand Navy before migrating to Australia in 1900 and joining the AFP.
Over his distinguished career, he has served in various high-profile roles, including drug and organised crime operations in Sydney, close personal protection for the Israeli Consul General, and multiple United Nations deployments to Cyprus, East Timor, and Afghanistan.
His expertise extends to leadership positions such as Detective Superintendent in the AFP’s money laundering taskforce and Contingent Commander in Timor-Leste.
Most recently, he served as Commander of Specialist Operations, overseeing search and rescue, canine operations, and tactical teams.
Commissioner-Designate Turner holds degrees in Business and Policing, along with two master’s degrees in business management and anti-money laundering.
His appointment marks a new chapter for Tonga Police as they transition under his leadership.
Commissioner McLennan’s Marching Out Parade is scheduled for Friday, 9 May, ahead of Turner’s official swearing-in ceremony.
