The Chinese Embassy in Tonga says there is currently no evidence to support claims of human trafficking following a viral Facebook livestream alleging that Tongan women had been lured to China for forced marriage.
In a statement issued after the livestream attracted widespread attention on social media, the embassy said it was working with the Embassy of Tonga in China to investigate the matter.
“Based on information available so far, the issue appears to be transnational marriage disputes,” the statement said.
The embassy said Chinese police were providing assistance to the three Tongan women referred to in the allegations and that, based on the information currently available, there was no evidence verifying that human trafficking was involved.
It added that if any unlawful conduct or non-compliance were identified on the Chinese side, the women’s legitimate rights and interests would be protected under Chinese law.
The embassy’s response follows a Facebook livestream on Wednesday by Tongan woman Aloi Katoa, who alleged that three Tongan women had travelled to China for marriage and later encountered serious difficulties.
The livestream quickly gained widespread attention, attracting more than 170,000 views and over 3,000 shares within hours of being posted.
The allegations prompted concern among members of the Tongan community, with many calling for authorities to investigate the claims.
The Chinese Embassy encouraged the women involved or their family members to contact officials directly to assist with ongoing enquiries.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Chinese Embassy in Tonga on +676 24-554, by email at chinaemb_to@mfa.gov.cn, or the Embassy of Tonga in China.
Kaniva News will continue to follow developments as more information becomes available.
