In a significant move to ensure impartiality, an investigation into the alleged actions of Tonga’s Minister of Police, which led to the departure of a man subject to a travel ban, has been formally handed over to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The announcement came in an official statement addressing growing public concern over the case involving Mormon church leader Pita Hopoate.
Hopoate, who is the subject of an ongoing court matter, left Tonga despite an existing court order prohibiting him from doing so. The alleged role of the Police Minister in this incident is now the focus of the probe.
Police Commissioner Geoff Turner told Kaniva News in a statement this afternoon that Tonga Police had conducted preliminary enquiries after receiving several referrals, including one from the Office of the Prime Minister, urging an investigation into the Minister’s alleged actions.
“I have no doubt that Tonga Police are capable of undertaking an investigation into these allegations that would be actioned without fear, favour, malice or ill-will,” he said, acknowledging the capability of the national police force.
However, in the interests of transparency and to avoid any potential conflict of interest, a decisive step was taken.
“The Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and I have determined that the investigation is better suited to be undertaken by the ACC,” Turner also said.
This transfer of responsibility is now underway.
Tonga Police are currently briefing the ACC and handing over all relevant documentation to support the independent investigation.
He further committed that Tonga Police would provide any additional resources required by the ACC Commissioner to see the investigation through.
As Kaniva News reported yesterday, Prime Minister Aisake Eke has signaled a reluctance to suspend Minister Piukala, invoking the principle that “everyone is innocent until proven guilty.” The Prime Minister confirmed he would await the outcome of the investigation.
We also reported that Piukala, during his regular program with VPON media last week, did not deny the allegation.
Instead, he sought to justify his actions, stating he found it difficult to refuse a request for help from Hopoate.
Customs Minister Mateni Tapueluelu has publicly accused his colleague of interfering with the court and of allegedly assisting a person under a travel ban to flee the country.
The ACC has not yet provided a timeline for the completion of its investigation.
