A violent brawl in Tonga, captured on video and widely shared on Facebook this evening, has drawn widespread condemnation after an elderly mother’s desperate cries to protect her son were disregarded by a group of youths.
The incident has horrified viewers, especially as the Tongan community in New Zealand celebrates Mother’s Day this Sunday.
Many have criticised the attackers for their blatant disrespect toward the distraught woman.
The video shows the woman screaming for help as she tries to intervene while her son is being assaulted.
Witnesses reported the fight erupted in Touliki, though the exact cause remains unclear.
Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly critical, with many describing the youths’ actions as shameful, particularly given the timing on a day meant to honour mothers.
Local leaders and online commentators have emphasised the cultural principle of faka’apa’apa (respect), especially toward elders.
“How can we celebrate mothers if we ignore their pain?” wrote one Facebook user.
Others have called for police action, demanding accountability for those involved.
Police have yet to comment.
