The rise in firearm-related incidents in Tonga was central to the sentencing of Lapaha community warden Vili Lausi‘i, who received a three-month jail term.
Presiding over the case, Chief Justice Lord Malcolm Bishop said the courts have a duty to deter such behaviour, noting the “increase in the negative use of arms in society” and expressing concern over the growing presence of firearms in the Kingdom.
The incident occurred on 19 December 2024, between 10 and 11pm when the complainant and her family were driving through Lapaha.
Lausi‘i, 46, allegedly stopped his vehicle abruptly at an intersection, pointed a gun at them, and followed them to their home, continuing to aim the weapon at their car.
The family remained inside, too afraid to exit.
The complainant’s mother called out, asking why he was doing this, but Lausi‘i remained silent and only left when the complainant’s father arrived.
Mr Bishop said: “What is particularly serious about your case is that this offending arose with no provocation and out of your own volition you chose to approach the Complainant and her family then proceeded to follow them home with your loaded rifle pointed at their direction.”
Mr Bishop noted that Lausi‘i may have been part of an additional patrol group assisting community policing, possibly concerned about thefts occurring at the church.
“I can only speculate that you thought the occupants of this vehicle were potential thieves, even if your suspicion was justified, it is no excuse for pointing a loaded firearm in their direction causing them to be fearful and I would imagine, terrified.”
Lausi‘i is a father of two and had no prior criminal record and he expressed remorse for his actions.
“You are identified as a good citizen for being a reliable and hardworking individual for the benefit of his family and communities”, Mr Bishop said.
He imposed a sentence of 12 months’ imprisonment, with the final nine months suspended for two years under specified conditions.
