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$50 bribe attempt fails as Customs officer jailed for illegal weapons import

By
Kalino Latu
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A 58-year-old Customs officer has been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment, with two years suspended on conditions, after being convicted of importing prohibited firearms and ammunition into Tonga.

Mōsese Kātoa. Photo/Supplied

Mōsese Kātoa was found guilty by a jury on four charges, including two counts of importing prohibited goods under the Customs and Excise Management Act, failing to make a proper customs declaration, and bribing a government servant under the Criminal Offences Act. He had no previous convictions.

According to court documents, a shipment containing firearms and ammunition arrived aboard the Mountain Cameron on 30 August 2023. Kātoa attempted to clear the crate on 11 September, declaring only ammunition and denying the presence of firearms.

Customs officers proceeded to scan the crate and detected both firearms and ammunition, despite Kātoa stating there were no guns and claiming the consignment contained about 500 bullets.

He then attempted to offer a $50 bribe to a Customs officer to stop further inspection, which the court described as especially serious given his role as a serving Customs officer.

A full search revealed nine rifles, two shotguns, one pistol and 27 cases of ammunition.

The court noted that during the process, Kātoa repeatedly changed his explanation and later claimed the weapons belonged to another person and that he did not hold an import licence.

However, Justice Paul Garlic KC noted two mitigating factors in sentencing: the defendant’s previously good character and clean record, and his age.

All sentences were ordered to run concurrently, making a total sentence of four years’ imprisonment, with the final two years suspended for two years, subject to conditions.

The firearms and ammunition were ordered forfeited to the Crown.

Explainer: Why Lo‘au’s view of ‘cut and paste’ journalism is wrong

By
Kalino Latu
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In recent commentary, Lo‘au dean Dr Siosiua Lafitani criticised Kaniva News, using the term “cut and paste” — or in Tongan, tuʻusi mo fakapipiki — in a derogatory manner to suggest the outlet lacks originality and journalistic rigour.

Cut and paste or credible journalism? Quotation and attribution are fundamental tools that uphold accuracy, transparency, and ethical reporting.

His remarks follow earlier criticisms he has made of Kaniva News, which arose after our reporting challenged several misleading claims he made in relation to our reports on Tonga’s democracy, raised concerns about the legality of aspects of his Lo‘au online university, and highlighted student complaints about the way Lo‘au delivered its teaching and courses.

Lafitani and his scholars’ “cut and paste” characterisation is inaccurate and reflects a misunderstanding of how professional journalism and evidence-based reporting operate.

In journalism, what is dismissively labelled as “cut and paste” is in reality the disciplined practice of quoting primary sources — including official statements, interviews, court documents, legislation, and expert analysis — with full and transparent attribution. This approach mirrors accepted academic methodology, where direct quotation is essential for accuracy, credibility, and ethical reporting.

In academia, “cut and paste” is in fact the legitimate practice of quotation, attribution, and source citation — essential tools that ensure accuracy, accountability, and transparency. They allow readers to verify claims, assess the credibility of sources, and distinguish clearly between reported facts, direct statements, and analysis.

Far from indicating laziness or a lack of originality, responsible quotation reflects editorial integrity. It shows that a newsroom prioritises factual accuracy over paraphrasing that may distort meaning. In matters of public interest — particularly politics, governance, and accountability — precise wording is often critical, and quoting directly is the safest and most ethical approach.

Original journalism does not mean inventing facts or rewriting others’ words unnecessarily. It means independently selecting, contextualising, verifying, and presenting information in a way that serves the public interest. Editorial judgement lies in what is reported, why it is reported, how it is framed, and what context is added — not in avoiding quotation.

In both academia and journalism, quotations are used to substantiate an argument, claim, or point by providing direct evidence from a reliable source. A quotation is a precise, word-for-word extract from that source and is presented within quotation marks to ensure accuracy, transparency, and integrity in reporting.

This is particularly important when public figures make contentious statements. Quoting their exact words is often the most responsible approach, as paraphrasing can unintentionally soften, exaggerate, or distort meaning. Direct quotation allows audiences to see exactly what was said, in context, enabling them to form informed opinions based on the speaker’s actual words rather than an interpretation of them.

Kaniva News’ reporting is grounded in these principles. Where statements are quoted, they are quoted to preserve accuracy. Where documents are referenced, they are cited to maintain transparency. Where analysis is offered, it is clearly distinguished from reported fact.

Reducing this professional practice to a dismissive label not only misrepresents the work of journalists but also risks misleading audiences about how credible news is produced. In an era of misinformation, the disciplined use of sources is not a weakness — it is a safeguard.

At its core, journalism exists to inform the public truthfully and responsibly. Quotation and attribution — which Lo‘auan critics have dismissively referred to as “cut and paste” — are not shortcuts; they are professional standards.

Iran leader prepared to flee to Moscow if protests overwhelm security forces: Report

By
Kaniva Staff
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Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is prepared to flee to Moscow if his regime faces collapse, according to an intelligence report cited by The Times of Israel.

The report claims the 86-year-old leader would leave Tehran with senior aides and family members if security forces fail to suppress the escalating protests, or if elements within the regime abandon him during the unrest.

According to reports, a “plan B” has been prepared for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his inner circle, including his son and designated successor, Mojtaba.

The revelation comes as mounting unrest, driven by worsening economic conditions, continues to place significant pressure on Iran’s ruling Islamic system.

Amid the tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if Iranian authorities opened fire on their own citizens, the United States would intervene to protect protesters. Iran’s Foreign Minister rejected the remarks, condemning them as “reckless and dangerous.”

The escalating situation unfolds as Tehran is still dealing with the aftermath of Israel’s 12-day offensive in June, along with subsequent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.

Economic strain has intensified further since September, when the United Nations reinstated sanctions over Iran’s nuclear programme. As a result, the national currency has collapsed, with the rial now reportedly worth around 1.4 million to the U.S. dollar (NZ$1.74).

At the same time, Iran’s regional influence has weakened significantly, with its so-called “Axis of Resistance” — an alliance of states and militant groups aligned with Tehran — severely diminished since the Israel-Hamas conflict erupted in 2023.

Adding to the tension, U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that Washington would “come to the rescue” if Iranian authorities violently suppressed peaceful demonstrators has gained renewed relevance, particularly after American forces detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a key ally of Tehran.

Woman allegedly caught smuggling NZ$5.53m worth of meth at Auckland Airport

By
Kaniva Staff
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A 33-year-old New Zealand citizen is facing serious drug smuggling charges after Customs officers at Auckland Airport allegedly discovered more than 18 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in her luggage.

The methamphetamine seized is estimated to produce up to 922,500 doses, with a potential street value of NZ$5.53 million.

The woman arrived in Auckland from Singapore on 4 January and was referred to Customs for further questioning.

During a search of her baggage, officers located 18 individually vacuum-sealed packages containing a white crystalline substance. Subsequent testing confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine.

Customs Auckland Airport Manager Paul Williams issued a clear warning to travellers tempted to smuggle drugs into the country.

“If you try to smuggle drugs into New Zealand, you might not just land here—you could land in prison,” he said.

“The Christmas and New Year period is one of our busiest times, with our officers working tirelessly at the border to ensure a smooth travel experience for visitors and those returning home.

“Our message to anyone considering carrying prohibited items is clear: regardless of whether you know what’s in your bag, if it contains illegal drugs, you will face arrest.

“Customs remains committed to reducing the harm caused by illicit drugs in our communities. No financial gain is worth the serious consequences, which can include life imprisonment.”

Authorities estimate the 18.45 kilograms of methamphetamine seized could produce up to 922,500 doses, with a potential street value of approximately NZ$5.53 million.

Customs said investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information about suspected drug smuggling is urged to contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Pension fund theft case involving nearly half a million pa‘anga set to return to court

By
Kaniva Staff
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The woman accused of misappropriating nearly half a million pa‘anga from Tonga’s Retirement Fund Board (RFB) is expected to reappear in court soon, following a postponement of her case from last year.

Meliame Lu’isa Finau Langi, 39, of Longolongo, is alleged to have taken $491,922.52 between 2022 and 2024.

Authorities confirmed that investigations revealed Langi was allegedly responsible for accumulating the funds in question during the specified period.

The case follows revelations last year that the fund’s board dismissed a couple in June 2024.

They were accused of involvement in the embezzlement of the pension funds.

However, there has been no confirmation that the two cases are linked.

That allegation became public after former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke confirmed that an investigation was underway into claims of misappropriating “hundreds of thousands” of pa‘anga from the retirement fund.

Eke did not disclose any further information at the time.

Tonga’s RFB is financed through compulsory contributions from public servants, who pay 5 percent of their salaries, while the government contributes 7.5 percent as employer.

The fund also accepts voluntary contributions and holds major investments, including shares in the Tonga Development Bank. It is managed by the Tonga Retirement Fund Board, with the mandate to safeguard members’ savings while investing to grow the fund.

Man jailed for $20,000 fraud over Kolomotuʻa false land sale

By
Kaniva Staff
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A man has been sentenced to prison after the Supreme Court found he fraudulently obtained money by falsely selling a town allotment in Kolomotuʻa, Tonga, according to court documents.

Penisimani Fisi’ihoi

The case centred on the unlawful sale of land known as Mohutapuaki, which was subject to a registered mortgage and had already been surrendered to another party at the time of the transaction.

Penisimani Fisi’ihoi, 43, promoted the sale of the allotment in April 2024, offering it to the complainant for $20,000, citing urgent financial need, according to the judgment.

The complainant paid the full amount over two days and, in return, was given a letter purportedly surrendering the land to her eldest son, along with a stamped document and a copy of the deed of grant.

Subsequent enquiries with the Ministry of Lands revealed that no such surrender had been received.

Police investigations later found that the surrender letter was never filed, the Ministry stamp used was not genuine, the reference number related to an unrelated land matter, and the deed of grant provided did not disclose an existing mortgage.

Investigators also established that the land had already been surrendered earlier in April 2024 to a different individual.

Defendant Admits Fraud

During police interviews, the defendant admitted to the offending, acknowledging that he had fabricated the surrender document and used a false Ministry stamp without authorisation.

He told investigators he was experiencing financial difficulty and believed the land was unencumbered at the time.

In submissions to the court, the defendant did not file formal written arguments as directed in October 2025 but apologised in court and sought leniency.

He told the court he wished to repay the complainant and claimed to have reimbursed approximately $6,000.

The Crown said it was unable to verify that claim, and the complainant was reported to be overseas at the time of the hearing.

Fisi’ihoi pleaded guilty to one count of obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to section 164 of the Criminal Offences Act.

Court documents show that Justice Tupou KC reduced the starting point by six months in mitigation, resulting in a final sentence of 24 months’ imprisonment.

Auckland Police release images of two men sought over Karangahape rd brawl

By
Kaniva Staff
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Police have released images of two men they are seeking to identify in relation to a large brawl involving about 50 people in central Auckland last weekend.

The incidents, which involved a series of assaults, occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 28, around the Karangahape Road area.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greaves said the newly released photographs show two young men police would like to speak with as part of their ongoing inquiries.

“I am asking anyone who recognises these individuals to please contact police,” Greaves said.

He said one man was wearing black pants, a blue-and-black Hunting and Fishing jacket, and a black cap with white writing. The second man was wearing a white shirt and a beige hat.

A 21-year-old man was already arrested in relation to the assaults.

He was charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and was due to appear in court on January 16.

The public are asked to call police if they have any information and to quote reference number 251228/4774, or to report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police say any information that could assist in identifying the two men would be appreciated.

PM Lord Fakafanua names new government

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga’s new Prime Minister, Lord Fakafanua, has announced his 11-member Cabinet.

Most Cabinet ministers have been selected from among elected members of Parliament.

One portfolio has been filled from outside Parliament, with the Crown Prince appointed as Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces, roles he also held in the previous government.

Aside from the Prime Minister, no Cabinet ministers have been appointed from among the noble members of Parliament, continuing a pattern set by the previous government.

The Prime Minister will oversee two major portfolios: police, prisons, and fire and emergency services; and the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications (MEIDECC).

The only woman newly elected to Parliament, Fane Fotu Fituafe, has been appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, a portfolio that includes women’s affairs, social development, and employment.

Lord Fakanua has assembled several members of Parliament, previously involved in intense debate and confrontation in Parliament. They are Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, former Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku (Siaosi Sovaleni), and former Infrastructure Minister Seventiini Toumoʻua.

Dr Fusimalohi previously served as a deputy prime minister in the government led by Dr ʻAisake Eke, which initiated a vote of no confidence in December 2024. The motion ultimately prompted Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku’s resignation before it could be debated.

The same episode also led to Toumoʻua losing his ministerial post in that Cabinet.

The incident escalated into prolonged clashes in Parliament last year involving the trio, following a series of serious allegations made by Dr Fusimalohi—who was then Minister for Infrastructure—against Huʻakavameiliku and Toumoʻua. Among these was a dispute that culminated in Fusimalohi accusing Toumoʻua of defamation on social media, as alleged at the time.

PM Lord Fakafanua presented his ministerial recommendations to King Tupou VI during an audience on December 26, the Prime Minister’s Office recently said.

The King formally appointed the new ministers on Wednesday, 31, 2025, in accordance with the Constitution, which requires appointments to be made on the Prime Minister’s advice.

The appointments released by the Prime Minister’s Office today are as follows:

  • Lord Fakafanua

Prime Minister

Minister for Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Communications and Climate Change (MEIDECC); Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Prisons

  • Dr Viliami Uasike Latu

Deputy Prime Minister

Minister for Justice; Minister for Trade and Economic Development

  • HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala

Minister for His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services; Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces

  • Siaosi ‘Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni

Minister for Public Enterprises; Minister for Health

  • Lataifaingata’a Tangimana

Minister for Finance & National Planning

  • Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika

Minister for Tourism; Minister for Infrastructure

  • Dr Taniela Liku’ohihifo Fusimalohi

Minister for Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources

  • Dr Mo’ale ‘Otunuku

Minister for Education and Training

  • Sevenitini Toumo’ua

Minister for Customs and Inland Revenue

  • Viliami Sisifa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests; Minister for Fisheries

  • Fane Fotu Fituafe

Minister for Internal Affairs, Employment, Women, Social Protection, Youth and Sports.

BBC welcomes 2026 with New Year message featuring Tongans and New Zealanders

By
Kalino Latu
-

The BBC has welcomed the start of 2026 with a New Year message highlighting celebrations in Tonga and New Zealand, placing the two Pacific nations among the first in the world to usher in the new year.

In its New Year coverage, the BBC carried the greeting, “‘May 2026 be filled with peace, hope, and blessing’:Tongans and New Zealanders welcome new year,” as Tonga entered the new year ahead of most countries due to its position near the International Date Line.

Across the Kingdom, the New Year was marked primarily through church services and family gatherings, reflecting Tonga’s deeply rooted Christian traditions.

Many congregations held late-night services to give thanks for the year that had passed and to seek God’s guidance and protection for the year ahead.

Fireworks also featured in Tonga’s celebrations to welcome the new year.

Families gathered in homes and villages throughout Tongatapu, Vavaʻu, Haʻapai, and ʻEua, welcoming 2026 in quiet observance rather than large public celebrations.

Messages shared among communities focused on peace, good health, and unity, particularly following recent years of social and economic challenges.

While celebrations in New Zealand were more visibly public, the broadcaster noted the contrast with Tonga’s faith-centred observances.

As one of the first nations to enter the new year, Tonga’s New Year moment was broadcast to international audiences, offering a glimpse of the Kingdom’s cultural and spiritual values at the very start of 2026.

New Year’s eve thunderstorms threaten North Island celebrations, while Hawke’s Bay sees respite

By
Kaniva Staff
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Auckland,NZ – Thousands of New Year’s Eve revellers across the upper North Island are facing a sodden and potentially dangerous countdown as MetService places Auckland under a severe thunderstorm watch.

The severe weather is forecast to bring disruptive, very heavy rain and flash flooding risks through the evening, while offering a silver lining for drenched holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay.

The meteorological service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Auckland City, Rodney, Gulf Islands, and Albany, effective until 7:30 pm Monday.

The volatile cells are tracking southeast and were predicted to be near central Auckland and Auckland Airport at 7:00 pm. By 7:30 pm, they are expected to impact Pukekohe, Papakura, Drury, Patumahoe, and Kingseat.

“These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain,” a MetService spokesperson warned. The public is advised that such intensity can lead to surface and flash flooding around streams, gullies, and poorly draining urban areas. Driving conditions are expected to become “extremely hazardous,” with reduced visibility and potential water pooling on roads.

The timing threatens to disrupt a raft of outdoor festivities and travel plans for one of the busiest nights of the year. Emergency services are urging people to reconsider non-essential travel in affected areas, check road closures, and have a plan to seek shelter quickly if severe weather strikes during celebrations.

In a contrast of fortunes, residents and holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay, who have endured a week of persistent rain, can finally anticipate a drier evening. The forecast break in the weather offers a welcome window for outdoor gatherings and a clearer view of any potential midnight fireworks displays.

The Auckland Emergency Management has reiterated standard advice for severe thunderstorms: secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, never drive through floodwaters, and stay indoors away from windows during the most intense activity.

People are encouraged to monitor official MetService updates and local civil defence channels for the latest information.

As the region prepares to ring in the New Year, the mood for many will be dictated by the skies, with safety authorities hoping the public prioritises caution over celebration during the passing storms.

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