Grief-stricken scenes unfolded in south-west Sydney as members of the Tongan community gathered to support the mother of Alai ‘Ahio, the 28-year-old who was fatally shot last week in a targeted attack in Canley Vale.
Mr ‘Ahio died in Liverpool Hospital on Tuesday night after sustaining critical gunshot wounds during the incident.
Police allege multiple gunmen descended on the property and opened fire in what authorities have described as a “brazen” attack.
Alongside Mr ‘Ahio, another man was also shot, while three others suffered injuries during what investigators believe was a violent struggle that ensued moments after the gunfire erupted.
Police have confirmed that Mr ‘Ahio had known associations with individuals linked to the rap group OneFour, a collective that has previously been the subject of law enforcement scrutiny due to connections with gang activity. However, investigators have not suggested the group itself was directly involved in the shooting, and inquiries are continuing into the circumstances and motive behind the attack.
The shooting has shocked both the local community and wider Pacific networks in Australia and New Zealand, where the young man is understood to have close ties.
Kāinga Unite in Grief
Relatives and friends gathered at the ‘Ahio family home this week, embracing his mother, Savelina, and surrounding her with traditional expressions of love and collective support.
The visits were part of the rooted Tongan custom, where kāinga (extended family) come together in times of loss to offer comfort, prayers, and gifts as a sign of respect and condolence.
Photographs from the gathering show mourners seated closely together in a modest indoor setting, many dressed in black and traditional taʻovala mats tied around the waist—an important cultural symbol worn during funerals and formal occasions.
Savelina is seen being tightly embraced by a relative, with her face pressed against the person’s shoulder as tears are visible on her face.
In one image, a visitor wraps both arms around a family member, while others sit nearby in silence.
In another, a group sits shoulder to shoulder, while a further image captures mourners embracing in front of a memorial display adorned with white flowers, candles and a framed photograph, alongside a jersey hung in tribute.
