A Tongan commercial pilot faces a potentially career-ending prison sentence after being convicted of engaging in sexual acts with a minor, a case that has shocked the aviation community and raised urgent questions about child protection protocols.
Mikaele Halafihi, 26 of Vailele and New Zealand appeared before the Supreme Court this month for hearing to charges of rape and two counts of sexual conduct, Apia, Samoa media have reported.
The alleged offence occurred on 21 September 2024 at Vailele, with the complainant being a 15-year-old from New Zealand and Tonga.
The court has already imposed a Departure Prohibition Order on the defendant until the conclusion of his case.
At the start of the trial, Halafihi withdrew his initial not guilty plea and pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual conduct with a minor after prosecutors dropped the more serious rape charge.
The defendant, who previously worked at Talofa Airways, was represented by lawyer Alex Sua.
The Samoan Global News reported that Halafihi’s supporters in court included strong family backing, with members traveling from Tonga.
Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke has scheduled June 6 as the date to deliver his sentencing.
Halafihi was remanded on bail and remains out on bail until sentencing.
