Nuku’alofa — Tonga’s Police Commissioner, Geoff Turner has issued a public statement acknowledging recent misconduct within the Tonga Police and reaffirming the force’s commitment to accountability and public trust.
While the statement did not directly reference Kaniva News, it is understood to have followed our editorial published last week, which called on the Ministry of Police to address growing concerns over transparency and discipline within the force.
The editorial cited court documents revealing that several Tonga Police officers were heavily intoxicated during a party held at Sopu, rendering their testimonies unreliable.
One officer admitted in court that he had driven a motor vehicle while unfit to do so due to excessive alcohol consumption.
Two officers were allegedly injured by colleagues during the gathering, although a court later acquitted two other officers who had been sued in connection with the incident, citing a lack of evidence.
The court also ruled that Sopu, where the party took place, is a public area, and stated that police officers should not have been consuming alcohol there.
Our editorial also cited a May incident where Tonga Police charged 14 civilians at a large overnight gathering in Mataki‘eua for public drunkenness and disorderly behaviour.
The police response to the 130-person gathering was swift and public, involving official statements and roadblocks.
This stands in contrast to the recent court-revealed police drinking incident, which showed the Ministry’s transparency regarding internal misconduct has been less forthcoming.
Senior Officers Face Suspension
“As the Commissioner of Tonga Police, I take full responsibility for the actions of our officers and staff,” Turner said.
“Our vision is simple – to ensure a safe, secure and crime-free Tonga.”
Turner confirmed that the recent alcohol-related incidents involving police officers are under internal review, and disciplinary action “is being finalised.”
He also revealed that two senior officers have been suspended over unrelated incidents and will face review by the independent Police Board.
“We have a robust internal disciplinary process that includes oversight by an independent Police Board for serious breaches of discipline,” he said.
“Those members are also entitled to due process, and I will not be commenting further.”
The Commissioner expressed disappointment over the incidents and praised the majority of officers who continue to serve with integrity.
“I am saddened by these events, as are the members of the Tonga Police,” Turner said.
“No one is above the law within Tonga Police, and we will always hold ourselves accountable.”
Turner also reiterated the force’s core values — Faitotonu, Lao, Māteaki, Tauhi, Toka’i and Fonua — and said these must be reflected in daily policing.
The Kaniva News editorial had urged the Minister of Police to respond to public concerns and ensure that disciplinary processes are transparent and effective.
Turner’s statement is seen as a timely and significant acknowledgement of those concerns.
