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EDITORIAL Tonga’s drug crisis – Are border controls and security measures enough?

By
Kalino Latu
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Editorial – The recent conviction of drug dealer Irvin Fukofuka and user Epuefi Laimani for methamphetamine possession serves as a stark reminder that illicit drugs continue to infiltrate Tonga’s borders.

The Depths of Deception: Narcotics concealed between scalp and hairpiece

This happens despite increased security measures, a new life imprisonment law, and additional funding aimed at addressing this growing threat.

This case raises urgent questions: Are Tonga’s current efforts to stem the flow of drugs truly effective? Or are we losing the battle against a scourge that threatens our society?

The discovery of methamphetamine, a drug with devastating social and health consequences, highlights a troubling reality: these substances are not produced locally but are smuggled into the kingdom from overseas.

This suggests weaknesses in border surveillance, customs inspections, or international cooperation. The recent symposium called by His Majesty and the subsequent pledges to strengthen drug enforcement were commendable steps, but this latest conviction this month proves that talk alone is not enough.

While the Minister of Police has introduced enhanced border controls, such as restricted Sunday flight approvals and CCTV surveillance, concerns persist.

Does Tonga’s border security possess the advanced technology and properly trained personnel required to intercept drug trafficking operations reliably?

European Shocking Concealment

A chilling example occurred on a flight from Cartagena to Amsterdam, where police discovered a Colombian trafficker had stashed narcotics beneath a toupee glued to his scalp. This shocking method underscores the lengths traffickers will go to evade detection.

If sophisticated criminal networks employ such tactics abroad, Tonga must ask: Are our authorities equipped to detect similar schemes? Or are we relying on outdated methods while smugglers innovate?

This issue is straightforward to assess. Most arrests made by police and related authorities, resulting in court convictions, involve only small quantities of methamphetamine or cocaine.

Yet suddenly, large blocks of cocaine began washing ashore in Vava’u in 2021, clearly dropped at sea for divers to retrieve and smuggle inland. Even more alarming, in February 2024, authorities discovered 15 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, leading to the arrest of a brother and sister.

These cases prove that international drug traffickers are targeting Tonga on a scale far beyond petty street dealing.

Failed measures

We keep hearing the same old talk about borders and laws. Tonga’s recent life sentencing law for drug crimes appears to have changed nothing. Tonga needs real solutions, not just harsher punishments.

We urge the Minister of Police and the Prime Minister to provide detailed answers to these pressing questions during their next media briefing. The public deserves concrete explanations, not vague assurances.

First, on the matter of training: Are border officials receiving adequate preparation to intercept drug shipments? If the answer is yes, the ministers must explain exactly how, what specific training programs exist, and how often personnel undergo updates to combat evolving smuggling tactics. Have Tongan border officials intercepted any drug shipments through advanced detection methods comparable to those used in the Cartagena hairpiece smuggling discovery?

Second, regarding regional cooperation, is Tonga effectively coordinating with Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific partners to track international drug routes? If such collaboration exists, authorities should provide verifiable examples of successful operations that have disrupted trafficking networks.

Finally, on deterrence: Do current penalties actually discourage drug trafficking? The ministers must either justify existing laws as sufficient deterrents or outline plans to strengthen punishments. Half-measures won’t suffice against this transnational threat.

Tonga cannot afford complacency. The kingdom must urgently reassess its anti-drug strategies, invest in advanced detection technology, and foster deeper international collaboration.

The fight against drugs is not just a legal issue but a battle for Tonga’s future. The time for action is now.

Vibrant dancing elder steals the spotlight during Tonga’s church conference season 

By
Kalino Latu
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Nuku‘alofa – As Tonga’s annual church conference season kicks into full swing, Protestant congregations across the islands are immersed in a mix of spiritual reflection and spirited social gatherings.  

Age is just a number! An energetic elder steals the show with his spirited dance at a Tongan church conference, proving faith and joy go hand in hand

This week, however, a viral video of an elderly man dancing with unmatched energy and youthful flair has captured the hearts of many and become the talk of the online community. 

Clad in traditional Tongan attire, a tupenu and ta‘ovala, the lively elder twirled and spiralled around tent poles, much to the delight of onlookers who erupted in laughter and cheers.  

The spontaneous performance, shared widely on social media, has brought a moment of lighthearted joy amid the busy preparations for the Free Church of Tonga’s annual conference, which is expected to begin in Vava‘u this morning.  

Similar gatherings by other denominations will follow later. 

Earlier this week, a video captured travellers on a ship from Tongatapu to Vava‘u singing a heartfelt Tongan religious hymn as they headed to their conference.

These conferences serve as crucial meetings where church leaders discuss annual agendas, set policies, and elect officials.  

Yet, they are also a time of communal bonding, with members contributing to cultural performances and massive feasts during the conference.  

Each family or group is assigned a table to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring the week-long event is well-fed and spiritually nourished. 

The meal contributions are a family commitment, announced to each household right after the previous conference to prepare for the next.

If parents in Tonga have children living abroad, those children are assigned partial contributions to support their family’s table.

They share the responsibility for providing food, drinks, meat, and desserts, and every family member regards participation as a blessing. 

As conferences continue across the islands, the dancing elder’s viral moment stands as a testament to the vibrant blend of devotion and cultural joy that defines Tonga’s church season.  

Liahona Old Boys player gets suspended sentence for referee assaults, fined $4,500

By
Kalino Latu
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A rugby player for the Liahona Old Boys, Afimeimo’unga Hola, has received a suspended prison sentence under specific conditions after pleading guilty to charges of serious bodily harm and common assault.

Afimeimo’unga Hola

The violent incident occurred following his team’s loss to Kolomatu’a Eagles in a heated match.

Enraged by the result, Hola chased down match official Kenipolo, punching him in the jaw and striking him again while he was on the ground.

When another official, Frederick, and several players intervened, Hola resisted and assaulted Frederick as well, shouting that he had been cheating.

Lord Chief Justice Bishop sentenced Hola to two years and six months in prison, fully suspended for three years.

The judge condemned Hola’s actions as disgraceful, emphasising that his behaviour ruined what should have been a fair and civilised sporting event.

Prior convictions

The court was informed of Hola’s extensive criminal history, which includes multiple convictions for drunkenness, abusive language, obstruction, threats, theft, and prior assaults.

The court noted that Hola showed remorse for his actions, which was taken into consideration during sentencing.

The court also heard Hola apologised to one of the victims, who accepted his apology.

However, the victim emphasised that violent behaviour, especially toward match officials, should never be tolerated on or near the rugby field, and that officials deserve protection, not abuse.

Compensation

Hola must comply with strict conditions as part of his three-year suspended sentence.

He is prohibited from committing any further offences punishable by imprisonment and has been placed on probation.

He must report to the probation office within 24 hours and complete a life skills and anger management course under the supervision of the Salvation Army within 12 months.

He has been ordered to pay $3,000 in compensation to Kenipolo and $1,500 to Frederick, with all payments due within a year. Hola must also complete 100 hours of community service within the same timeframe.

Justice Bishop warned Hola that any breach of his sentencing conditions would likely result in immediate imprisonment.

Tonga Police vow to safeguard intercollegiate rugby tournament from violence

By
Kaniva Staff
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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.

 Police to temporarily close Mataki’eua roads following illegal gathering

By
Kalino Latu
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Tonga Police have announced the temporary closure of certain roads in Mataki’eua this Friday, May 23, from 11pm to 6am.

Tonga Police Commissioner Geoff Turner. Photo/Tonga Police

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.

Police Minister condemns illegal Mataki’eua party, reveals civil servants among arrested

By
Kalino Latu
-

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.

Flood-hit NSW region home to significant Tongan community as death toll rises to four

By
Kaniva Staff
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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.

Beulah College student breaks tradition to represent Tonga in Under-18 rugby league clash against Fiji

By
Kaniva Staff
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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.

75-Year-Old Tongan mother triumphs at St Peter’s 551 steps as Pope names third female Vatican leader

By
Kalino Latu
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A Tongan mother has been praised for her determination after climbing 320 of 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.

North Korea warship damaged at launch attended by Kim Jong Un

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By 1news.co.nz

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.
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.

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