Nuku’alofa – As the much-anticipated intercollegiate rugby season begins, Tonga Police have pledged to maintain order and prevent violence at all tournament venues.
With the tournament now underway, authorities remain vigilant, ensuring that the focus stays on talent, teamwork, and fair play.
Violence has plagued Tonga’s school rugby tournaments for years, with some schools being forced to withdraw their teams following serious incidents.
In a Facebook post this afternoon, authorities emphasised their commitment to fostering a spirit of unity and sportsmanship throughout the sporting event.
Police revealed that officers have been deployed across various locations in Nuku’alofa to monitor games and ensure the safety of players, officials, and spectators.
The measures aim to prevent fights, disorder, and other disruptions that could mar the celebration of rugby.
“We have officers stationed at different venues to guarantee a secure environment for everyone involved,” the statement read.
They urged supporters to enjoy the games responsibly and collaborate with them in making this rugby season a safe and memorable one.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to promote community safety during large public gatherings.
Tonga Police also encouraged fans to report any incidents or suspicious behaviour to nearby officers.
The measure will remain in effect until further notice as authorities work to prevent further illegal gatherings in the area.
It follows the Minister of Police’s expression of shock this afternoon that over 100 people attended the illegal gathering.
The Minister said civil servants were among those arrested during last week’s police operation.
The decision comes in response to last week’s incident, where police disrupted an unauthorised party of over 100 youths at Mataki’eua hilltop.
Authorities described the road closures as a precautionary step to deter similar events and maintain public order.
They stated that such events disrupt public order and risk damaging agricultural crops and livestock in the area.
The large-scale gatherings, accompanied by excessive noise and reckless behaviour, have raised concerns about their impact on nearby farms and the local ecosystem.
The Police said the risks to participants’ well-being, including alcohol-related harm, potential violence, and unsafe conditions in remote bush locations.
Police reiterated their commitment to enforcing laws on public disturbances, underage drinking, and illegal gatherings.
They urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities and reminded the public to comply with the new restrictions.
For inquiries, contact the Tonga Police Media & Public Relations Office at 740-1614.
The Minister of Police, Piveni Piukala, has expressed serious concerns following reports of an illegal party involving over 100 youths at Mataki’eua hilltop last Friday night.
Police Minister Piveni Piukala
The incident, first brought to light by Kaniva News, prompted a police response in the early hours of Saturday, May 17. Authorities confirmed that among those arrested were several civil servants, a revelation that has drawn sharp criticism from the Minister.
Minister Piukala described the actions of those involved as “irresponsible” and called for immediate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Minister expressed shock that the gathering had grown to hundreds of attendees, attributing it to social media coordination.
He said that civil servants, as public officials, should be held to higher standards of conduct and that their participation in unlawful gatherings was particularly unacceptable.
Speaking in Tongan during a media brief today in Nuku’alofa, the Minister stressed that such behaviour undermines public trust and must be addressed firmly.
It is understood that the illegal gathering, which took place in a bush venue at Mataki’eua, involved excessive alcohol consumption and loud music, disturbing nearby residents.
An official Police statement said Police, assisted by the Community Volunteer Patrol of Pea, intervened to disperse the crowd and apprehend those responsible.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing laws related to public drinking, noise disturbances, and other activities that jeopardise public safety, according to the statement.
Black Market Dealing Warning
The Police also warned against illicit drug use and black-market dealings, emphasising that offenders would face strict penalties. The presence of teenagers at the event has further prompted calls for parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities more closely.
Community leaders have joined the Minister in condemning the incident, highlighting the need for greater accountability, especially among public servants.
The Minister and police officials have assured the community that all offenders will face appropriate consequences regardless of their positions.
For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Tonga Police Media and Public Relations Office at 740-1614.
NEW SOUTH WALES, Australia – As deadly floods continue to devastate communities along Australia’s east coast, concerns are growing for the significant Tongan population living in the affected regions.
Census data reveals that 5,842 Tongan-born residents live in New South Wales (NSW), with many residing in areas now battling severe flooding.
The death toll from the disaster has risen to four after the body of a man in his 70s was discovered in a submerged car northwest of Coffs Harbour early Friday morning.
A passing motorist alerted authorities after spotting the vehicle off the road, but emergency responders were unable to revive him.
Heavy rains, which have already caused widespread destruction, are now shifting toward the Hunter region, Blue Mountains, and Southern Highlands, with further downpours expected into Friday.
Authorities have issued warnings for parts of Sydney, urging residents to avoid floodwaters.
High Alerts
While there are no confirmed reports of Tongans directly affected by the floods, social media posts highlight the large Tongan community in the region.
Many families are now on high alert as the disaster unfolds.
Emergency crews have carried out multiple rescues, including a near-tragedy near Dorrigo on Wednesday night.
A police officer and a 60-year-old woman in a 4WD were caught in floodwaters but escaped unharmed.
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner David Waddell urged residents to stay clear of flooded roads, emphasizing the dangers of fast-moving water.
With the SES (State Emergency Service) working around the clock, Tongan community leaders are sharing safety updates on social media, advising families to prepare for possible evacuations.
In a groundbreaking decision, a student from Beulah College in Tonga has made history by becoming the first from the Adventist Church-affiliated institution to participate in a national sports competition.
Some of the Team with Lord Ma’afu. Photo/Doves Eye Production (Facebook)
Pomana Jr Ma’afu, a Form 6 student at Beulah, has been selected to represent the Tongan Under-18 rugby league team in their upcoming match against Fiji this Saturday in Lautoka.
Beulah College, known for its adherence to Adventist Church doctrines, has traditionally refrained from participating in sports or cultural competitions.
However, in an unprecedented move, the school’s authorities reportedly granted permission for the student to join the national squad after he showcased his talent playing for the Vaini under-18 team.
A reliable source confirmed to Kaniva News that the Beulah College administration approved his participation, marking a significant shift in the school’s stance.
The Tongan teams, boys and girls, arrived in Fiji yesterday, gearing up for what promises to be an intense showdown against Fiji’s under-18 sides.
A team official said this historic milestone highlights the student’s sporting prowess and signals a potential shift in Tonga’s intersection of faith, education, and sports.
Fiji invitations
The Tongan teams’ participation comes after the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) invited them to play pre-match games ahead of Fiji’s National Under-18 main fixture against the West Tigers.
The Fiji U18 side is preparing for the upcoming Australian Under-18 Tournament, making this a crucial warm-up opportunity.
It is understood that the FNRL covers all costs for Tonga’s U18 squads, including travel and accommodation.
A Tongan mother has been praised for her determination after climbing 320of the 551 steps of St Peter’s Basilica’s Dome during a pilgrimage to the Vatican.
Kasilita Fonofehi Lanumata, among the oldest in her Tongan pilgrimage group, at St. Peter’s Dome’s summit during their spiritual journey. Photo/Malia Lanumata
Kasilita Fonofehi Lanumata, 75, one of the oldest members of Tongan groups travelling from New Zealand and Tonga, completed the ascent,a journey that typically takes an hour, as part of her spiritual journey.
Her daughter, Malia Lanumata, said the trip was a birthday gift for her mother, who turned 75 last month.
“I knew this would be the most precious gift for her,” Malia told Kaniva Tonga News.
Despite being away from traditional Tongan food for the longest time in her life, surviving on potatoes and crackers, Kasilita remained in good health throughout the pilgrimage.
“She said she felt full from time to time because this was a holy place,” Malia shared, reflecting on her mother’s deep spiritual fulfilment during their visit for the appointment of Pope Leo XIV.
Malia marvelled at the structure of the Dome, describing it as “just amazing.” She noted the extensive use of marble stone, which she believed would ensure the historic building’s longevity.
Malia was happy to see her mum reach the top of the dome, believing she was one of the first Tongan elder mothers to achieve that.
She said her mum took the elevator before climbing the 320 steps.
Most of the Tongan pilgrims have now returned home, joining over 30,000 Tongan Catholics worldwide in celebrating their faith.
551 Steps of St. Peter’s Basilica
The Dome of St Peter’s Basilica, designed by Michelangelo in 1546, is a Renaissance marvel.
Michelangelo completed the drum by 1564 but passed away.
Giacomo della Porta and Domenico Fontana finished construction in 1590, adapting their design with minor alterations.
A total of 551 steps lead to the top of the Dome. Visitors can take an elevator for part of the ascent, reducing the climb to 320 steps.
Marking the tomb of St Peter, the first Pope, its soaring design creates a visual bridge between heaven and earth, evoking awe and reverence in all who behold it.
Women Taken Key Roles
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Sister Tiziana Merletti, former Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor, as Secretary of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
She will serve under Sister Simona Brambilla, who made history in January as the first woman to lead a Vatican department, the Vatican News said.
Sister Merletti is now the third woman to hold a Secretary position in the Roman Curia, following Sister Alessandra Smerilli and her predecessor, Sister Brambilla.
This marks continued progress under Pope Francis’ reforms, allowing laypeople and women to lead dicasteries—a role once reserved for cardinals.
Since Pope Francis’ election, the proportion of women working in the Holy See and Vatican City State has risen from 19.2% to 23.4%, signalling a gradual shift toward greater inclusion in the Church’s governance.
A new 5000-tonne destroyer key to North Korea’s naval advancement was damaged during its launching ceremony attended by leader Kim Jong Un, state media reported.
Kim Jong Un speaks during a launching ceremony of a new naval destroyer at a western port in Nampo, North Korea, on April 25, 2025. (Source: Associated Press)
The ship slid off the ramp and became stuck after the flatcar failed to move alongside it, throwing off its balance and crushing parts of the ship’s bottom, according to the Korean Central News Agency.
The accident at Wednesday’s (local time) ceremony at the northeastern port of Chongjin was an embarrassing setback for Kim, who has emphasised naval advancement as key to his nuclear-armed military.
Kim blamed military officials, scientists and shipyard operators for what he described as a “serious accident and criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism”.
He called for a ruling Workers’ Party meeting to address their “irresponsible errors,” KCNA said. The agency reported separately that a plenary meeting of the party’s powerful Central Committee was scheduled for late June.
North Korean state media didn’t say whether the incident caused any injuries.
The damaged vessel was likely in the same class as the country’s first destroyer, unveiled on April 25, which experts assessed as the North’s largest and most advanced warship to date. Kim called it a significant asset for advancing his goal of expanding the military’s operational range and nuclear strike capabilities.
State media described that ship as designed to handle various weapons systems, including anti-air and anti-ship weapons as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles. Kim also supervised test-firings of missiles from the destroyer afterward, and state media said the ship was expected to enter active duty early next year.
Lee Sung Joon, spokesperson for South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the damaged vessel was likely equipped with similar systems and remains toppled over in the sea.
Kim has framed the arms buildup as a response to perceived threats from the United States and its allies in Asia, who have been expanding joint military exercises amid rising tensions over the North’s nuclear programme. He says the acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine would be his next big step in strengthening his navy.
Outside experts say the destroyer was likely built with Russian assistance. While North Korea’s naval forces are considered inferior to South Korea’s, analysts still view the destroyer as a serious security threat, as it could enhance the country’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have escalated in recent months as Kim accelerates the development of his nuclear and missile programmes and supplies weapons and troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The US, South Korea, and their allies have expressed concern that Moscow could reciprocate by providing North Korea with advanced weapons technology, further enhancing the threat posed by its nuclear and missile programme.
I write with concern about the urgent need to support sustainable agriculture across the Pacificregion. Our island communities rely heavily on farming, yet climate change, soil degradation, and limited resources threaten our food security and livelihoods.
Pacific farmers face increasing challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns, saltwater intrusion, and pests, which reduce crop yields and income. Without stronger support and investment, these vital food systems risk collapse, making our communities more dependent on costly imported goods.
It is crucial for governments, regional organisations, and international partners to prioritize agricultural development that respects local knowledge and environmental limits. Introducing climate-resilient crops, improving irrigation systems, and providing training for farmers are key steps forward.
Empowering youth and women in agriculture will also strengthen our communities and build long-term resilience. Sustainable agriculture not only protects our environment but also preserves our culture and identity.
As a Pacific islander, I urge leaders to act swiftly and decisively to safeguard our agricultural heritage. The future of the Pacific depends on food sovereignty and resilient farming practices.
A massive boulder weighing nearly 1,200 tonnes on Tonga’s Tongatapu island has been identified as one of the largest wave-transported rocks ever documented, offering crucial insights into the Pacific’s tsunami history.
Image: Martin Köhler standing in front of the Maka Lahi boulder.
The Maka Lahi boulder, measuring 14 x 12 x 6.7 metres, was carried more than 200 metres inland by a catastrophic tsunami approximately 7,000 years ago, according to researchers from the University of Queensland.
They made the startling discovery after local farmers directed them to the enormous rock, which sits far from the coast amid dense vegetation.
“We had been surveying the southern side of the island of Tongatapu looking along the coastal cliffs at evidence of past tsunamis,” PhD candidate Martin Köhler said.
“It was late in the day, and we were talking to some farmers when they directed us to this boulder.
“I was so surprised; it is located far inland, outside of our field work area and must have been carried by a very big tsunami.
“It was quite unbelievable to see this big piece of rock sitting there covered in and surrounded by vegetation.
“We made a 3D model and then went back to the coast and found the spot the boulder could have come from, on a cliff over 30 metres above the sea level.”
The Maka Lahi boulder is the world’s largest known cliff-top boulder, the researchers claimed.
Numerical modelling has established that wave heights of around 50 metres lasting around 90 seconds were needed to dislodge it from its cliff-edge origin and move it to its resting place.
Co-author Dr Annie Lau, a coastal geomorphologist, said Tonga had a long history of tsunamis triggered by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes along the underwater Tofua Ridge and the Tonga Trench.
“Tonga’s most recent tsunami in 2022 killed 6 people and caused a lot of damage,” Dr Lau said.
“Understanding past extreme events is critical for hazard preparation and risk assessment now and in the future.
“The findings we have reported on the Maka Lahi boulder are the evidence of a tsunami in the Pacific region in the Holocene epoch which began around 11,700 years ago.
“The analysis strengthens our understanding of wave transportation of rocks to improve coastal-hazard assessments in tsunami-prone regions around the world.”
