Officials Urge Stricter Anti-Doping Measures as Student Athlete Safety Comes Under Scrutiny
Tonga’s Police Minister made a surprise appearance at the opening of the 98th Inter-Collegiate Sports Competition in Nuku’alofa this morning, as concerns over doping and student-athlete safety took centre stage.
The high-profile visit comes amid growing calls from officials for stricter anti-doping measures, with fears that performance-enhancing drugs could jeopardize the integrity of the games and the well-being of young competitors.
Tonga is grappling with a growing methamphetamine crisis, with its devastating impact on children and families becoming increasingly evident.
Police have intensified crackdowns on drug networks—ranging from individual parents to organized crime groups like the Comancheros—as reports of drug sales near schools spark public outrage.
Authorities warn that the scourge of meth is not only fueling crime but also putting youth at risk, prompting calls for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
Approximately 100 police officers have been deployed to Teufaiva National Stadium to oversee and monitor the sporting events.
Anti-Doping workshops
Last week, the Tonga Sports Association and National Olympic Committee (TASANOC) conducted Safeguarding and Anti-Doping workshops for high school students across Tongatapu, preparing them for the annual intercollegiate sports competition.
Participating schools included Apifo’ou College, Liahona High School, Tonga High School, and Queen Salote College, with the initiative to promote athlete welfare and sporting integrity.
“This workshop equips students with the knowledge to uphold safety and well-being in sports,” TASANOC reportedly said.
“Protecting our athletes is a top priority.”
At Apifo’ou College, officials praised students and staff for their active engagement, noting that the sessions “reinforced the importance of clean sports, fair play, and safeguarding young athletes.”
TASANOC emphasized that the program is part of broader efforts to educate athletes on the dangers of doping and ethical sporting conduct.
TASANOC pledged to continue supporting schools to ensure a “safe and fair environment for all competitors.”
Previous workshops
Last year, Tonga Police’s Drug Team partnered with the Salvation Army and the Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC) to lead drug awareness programs in local villages.
The campaigns aimed to educate youth and communities about the harsh realities of Tonga’s current drug crisis, with a strong message: “Drug Awareness – Know What’s Happening Right Now in Tonga.”
Through lived experiences and eyewitness testimonies, the program revealed how children’s lives have been devastated by illicit drug abuse. Many participants described the sessions as “an eye-opener and scary,” highlighting the urgent need for action.
