Nuku‘alofa – Minister of Police Piveni Piukala has publicly rejected an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into his alleged role in facilitating the departure of a high-ranking Mormon leader from Tonga, describing the probe as “veve” (rubbish) and accusing the judiciary of incompetence and bias.
The ACC is examining claims that Piukala assisted Pita Foliaki Hopoate in departing for the United States despite a court-issued restraining order prohibiting him from travelling.
Police Commissioner Georff Turner told Kaniva News the case was referred to the ACC “to avoid any potential conflict of interest.”
“Mr Hopoate is the subject of an ongoing court matter, and a court order is in existence that prohibits him from leaving Tonga,” Turner said.
It is understood that the restraining order followed legal action brought against Hopoate by ‘Epalahame Taukei’aho, a member of their Mormon Church school alumni association.
Minister’s Media Defence
On Tuesday, November 11, Piukala mounted a vigorous defence during his regular segment on VPON—a media platform widely regarded as a political influencer—asserting, without challenge from host Sylvester Tonga, that his actions were justified.
Tonga informed Piukala that a report indicated the lawyer representing Taukei’aho had rejected what appeared to be an earlier claim by Piukala of an alleged agreement with Hopoate’s lawyer to process legal documents—an arrangement that, if accurate, might have enabled Hopoate to travel to the United States despite his court-issued restraining order.
Responding in Tongan, Piukala argued the issue stemmed from rote learning (“ako ma’uloto”), claiming the judiciary lacked sufficient understanding to handle the matter (“‘ikai ha maama fe’unga”).
He further alleged that the judge had “admitted” she did not review the background of the charges and was unaware of Hopoate’s identity, noting that the man was a retired Area 70 of the Mormon Church, “a position highly regarded” within the faith.
Piukala criticised the court for issuing the restraining order without hearing Hopoate’s side, claiming the judge had not called Hopoate or his associates before signing the order.
He warned that fully addressing the matter could “open a can of worms,” suggesting deeper, undisclosed complications.
“I acted with good intentions and am willing to go through the issue at all costs,” Piukala said. “I am glad this issue is unfolding, as it will reveal matters we did not expect.”
Lawyer Denies Agreement
Meanwhile, Allyssa Kafoa, lawyer for complainant Taukei’aho, vehemently denied what appeared to be an earlier allegation by Piukala that she had agreed with Hopoate’s lawyer to allow him to leave while processing the cancellation of the restraining order, according to Kakalu Online.
The paper quoted Kafoa as saying Piukala approached the judge in an attempt to release Hopoate, offering to act as “surety.”
It reported the judge rejected Piukala’s proposal and told him she needed to contact Kafoa first.
Political Fallout
The allegations have become a focal point for Piukala’s political opponents, who accuse him of undermining the rule of law.
His latest comments, directly challenging the integrity of both the ACC and the judiciary, are expected to intensify the political crisis and raise questions about the separation of powers between the police ministry and the courts.
The ACC has not yet issued a public response to Piukala’s accusations.
Kaniva News was unable to reach the judge or the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) for comment.
