Monday, April 6, 2026
Newsletter
Support Kaniva
Home Blog Page 15

Tonga Police arrest three in separate drug and firearm operations

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Nuku’alofa — Tonga Police have arrested three individuals in two separate operations targeting the distribution of illicit drugs and unlawful possession of firearms.

The first operation, carried out on 27 February, led to the arrest of a 35‑year‑old man from Kolonga.

Police say officers stopped the man while he was driving around the Tatakamotonga area allegedly distributing illegal drugs.

When approached, he attempted to flee on foot but was quickly stopped and taken into custody.

During the same operation, police also arrested a 39‑year‑old man from Ma’ufanga.

The second suspect was allegedly involved in the same incident and has been charged with possession of methamphetamine as well as drug‑related utensils.

A separate operation on 28 February resulted in the arrest of a 32‑year‑old man from Houma.

Police say intelligence linked the man to drug distribution activities. Officers executed a search and seized firearms, ammunition, drug paraphernalia and a quantity of cash believed to be connected to illegal activity.

The Houma suspect has since been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and drug‑related offences.

Police confirmed that all exhibits seized during the operations have been secured and investigations are ongoing.

In a statement, Tonga Police urged communities to report suspicious activity and emphasised their ongoing commitment to combating the spread of illicit drugs and the illegal possession of weapons.

“We continue to encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activity within their communities,” the statement said.

Police also released a Tongan‑language message reiterating their appeal to the public to assist in identifying drug‑related activity and supporting community safety.

For further information, Tonga Police advised the public to contact the Tonga Police Media & Public Relations Office on 740‑1613.

Enforcer Jason Taumalolo determined to do ‘All Out’ as Cowboys open 2026 season in Las Vegas

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Tongan rugby league superstar Jason Taumalolo says he is determined to play big minutes and give everything he has this season, insisting he does not want to be protected or held back despite having two years remaining on his 10‑year mega‑deal with the North Queensland Cowboys.

Jason Taumālolo. Photo/Broadcom FM Broadcasting (Facebook)

As the Cowboys prepare to launch their 2026 NRL campaign against the Newcastle Knights at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday, the 32‑year‑old forward—proudly regarded as one of Tonga’s most influential and iconic rugby league figures—has been named to start in the front row.

Taumalolo, widely celebrated in Tonga for lifting the national team onto the world stage during the historic 2017 Rugby League World Cup run, made clear that he still approaches the game with the same ferocity and pride he has carried throughout his career.

“I’ll go all out until the wheels fall off if I had it my way,” Taumalolo declared, rejecting the idea of limiting his minutes simply to preserve his body for the final years of his contract.

His coach, Todd Payten, has often taken a cautious approach to protect Taumalolo from further damage to his knees, but the Tongan powerhouse says he would rather empty the tank every game than focus on longevity.

Taumalolo played only 10 matches last season but says offseason surgery has left him feeling the healthiest he has been in two years, giving him renewed confidence heading into the Vegas opener.

With global attention on the NRL’s return to the United States, Taumalolo’s presence adds star power—especially for Tongan and Pasifika fans who continue to view him as a trailblazer and cultural icon in the sport.

The Cowboys’ full 2026 team list confirms Taumalolo will anchor the forward pack on Sunday, setting the stage for another season in which the Tongan enforcer aims to dominate through power, endurance, and pride in his heritage.

Tsunami‑devastated Mango resettlement completed after years of contract disputes

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Nuku‘alofa — Four years after the catastrophic tsunami and volcanic eruption devastated their homeland, the displaced residents of Mango island gathered on ‘Eua on Saturday to celebrate the opening of their new homes in the newly established resettlement community.

People of Mango pose happily for a group photo as they celebrate moving into their new homes on ‘Eua. Photo/Prime Minister’s Office

The celebration followed a project that had been stalled due to contractual disputes and repeated failures by several contractors to deliver.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the relaunch of the reconstruction programme demonstrates the administration’s determination to revive stalled national projects within its first 100 days in office.

In a statement, the Government said the completion of the resettlement is “a significant milestone in rebuilding resilient communities and restoring stability and dignity for affected families.”

The initiative reflects extensive collaboration between the Palace Office, government ministries, development partners, private donors, and local communities, all working to ensure safe, sustainable, and climate‑resilient housing for the former residents of Mango.

The government reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to support the families as they continue rebuilding their lives on ‘Eua, emphasising that long‑term recovery remains a national priority.

His Majesty King Tupou VI, joined by Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, commissioned the new resettlement in ‘Eua, marking a major step forward in Tonga’s long‑term recovery efforts following the devastating Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcanic eruption of 15 January 2022.

Banter at Vavaʻu kava club turns violent, teen convicted of assaulting elderly man

By
Kaniva Staff
-

The severe internal injuries suffered by a 72‑year‑old man, after being punched from behind and repeatedly kicked while lying on the ground, have resulted in his attacker receiving a three‑year suspended jail sentence.

Lopeti Lyden Poʻuli, 19, was sentenced in the Supreme Court of Tonga, where Justice P. Tupou KC condemned the assault as “culturally intolerable and inhumane,” describing it as a serious act of vengeful aggression.

The court heard that Poʻuli and the victim, Sione Havea Fanua, had been drinking with others at the Mohetaha Kava Club on the night of 14 December 2025.

According to the Supreme Court, what began as a playful and friendly exchange of teasing remarks among drinkers at the club ended with the elderly man being hospitalised.

A verbal disagreement escalated, and the elderly man left the club.

While walking near the Water Board and Governor’s Office, Fanua was struck from behind by Poʻuli, who then punched him again, causing him to fall. As the elderly man lay helpless on the ground, Poʻuli kicked him repeatedly in the abdomen until he lost consciousness.

A security officer from Halaevalu Wharf found the injured man and alerted police. Fanua suffered internal bleeding to the liver and other organs and was hospitalised.

Crown argued seriousness of violence

Prosecutors highlighted several aggravating factors, including the unprovoked nature of the attack, the defendant pursuing the victim as he walked away, and the victim’s advanced age, which made him especially vulnerable.

The Crown proposed a starting point of five years’ imprisonment, reduced to four years after mitigation.

Justice Tupou described the assault as an example of dangerous, alcohol‑fuelled violence.

“For a 19‑year‑old to attack an unarmed, unaware 72‑year‑old man from behind and continue to attack him while on the ground helpless…is culturally intolerable and inhumane,” he said in his sentencing remarks.

The judge set a starting point of four years’ imprisonment, citing public interest in denouncing such behaviour.

Sentence reduced and fully suspended

Although Poʻuli denied the allegations during trial, he later expressed remorse in the pre‑sentence report. He also had no previous convictions and had apologised to the victim before trial.

Taking into account his youth, clean record, cooperation with authorities, and the victim’s recovery, the judge deducted 18 months from the starting point. The resulting 2½ years’ imprisonment was then fully suspended for three years, subject to strict conditions.

As part of his sentence, Poʻuli is required to complete 180 hours of community service in Vavaʻu, follow all directions issued by the Magistrate Court regarding that service, and refrain from committing any offence punishable by imprisonment.

He has also been placed on probation and must undertake an alcohol, drug awareness, and anger‑management programme, if available. The judge warned that any breach of these conditions could result in Poʻuli being ordered to serve the full prison term.

In closing, Justice Tupou urged the young man to change the direction of his life.

“The court hopes you will use the opportunity and leniency you receive today to change the course of your life for the better.”

‘Eua residents urged not to drink public water after high lead levels detected

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Nukuʻalofa – Tongan authorities have issued an urgent public health advisory directing all residents of ‘Eua not to drink or use water for cooking from the island’s public supply or any bore.

The Ministry of Health, in consultation with the Tonga Water Board, Officials said recent testing of the ‘Eua water supply and bores detected lead (Pb) levels exceeding World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for drinking water, making it unsafe for consumption.

Boiling the water does not reduce the lead content.

The Ministry said the current water may be used only for bathing and non‑consumption purposes.

Rainwater collected from water tanks and all commercially bottled water remain safe for drinking.

Authorities said they will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the public.

The advisory was issued by the Ministry of Health and the Tonga Water Board as they work to identify the source of contamination and ensure the safety of the ‘Eua community.

Why lead in drinking water is dangerous

Lead in drinking water poses a serious health hazard, and no level of lead exposure is considered safe. Health authorities worldwide warn that even small amounts can accumulate in the body and cause long‑term harm.

Children are especially vulnerable: exposure can lead to permanent neurological damage, learning and behavioural difficulties, anemia, and impaired growth. In adults, lead ingestion is linked to kidney problems, high blood pressure, and reproductive issues.

Lead typically enters drinking water through corroding pipes, plumbing fixtures, or solder, particularly in systems installed before 1986, when many countries—Tonga included—had not yet fully transitioned away from lead‑containing materials. When pipes corrode, lead can leach into household water, making the supply unsafe.

Boiling water does not remove lead; in fact, it can increase its concentration as water evaporates and the remaining lead becomes more concentrated.

Health authorities stress that contaminated water must not be consumed under any circumstances and should only be used for non‑consumption purposes until testing confirms it is safe again.

Maui assault sparks outcry from Tongan community in Hawai‘i

By
Kaniva Staff
-

This Content Is Only For Subscribers

Please subscribe to unlock this content. Enter your email to get access.
Your email address is 100% safe from spam!

Man convicted over forged Tonga Australia Support Platform documents for MFF workshop

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Prosecutors alleged the defendant inflated payments and faked signatures on a Tonga Australia Support Platform (TASP) allowance sheet, claiming TOP$2,000 per representative who attended a workshop when none had received that amount.

The Supreme Court of Tonga has found Simote Polelei guilty of forgery, knowingly dealing with a forged document, and theft.

The case centred on falsified travel allowance documents submitted to the TASP for a Ma‘a Fafine mo e Famili (MFF) workshop held in July 2024.

Evidence showed Polelei had prepared a signing sheet containing forged signatures and incorrect payment amounts for five outer island representatives.

The court accepted witness testimony that one listed recipient had not attended the workshop, while others received significantly less than the amounts recorded in the forged document.

The court heard that between 15 and 19 July 2024, the MFF held its annual reflection and review workshop in Tonga. Representatives from the outer islands were expected to attend and were entitled to receive travel allowances provided by MFF.

Those listed as outer island representatives were Mikaela Lino (Niuatoputapu), Fatafehi Latu (‘Eua), Veapina Fifita (Vava‘u), Veisinia Tonga (Niuafo‘ou), and Lesieli Setaleki (Ha‘apai).

According to documents presented by the prosecution, a total of TOP$10,000 was allocated for travel allowances, with TOP$2,000 intended for each representative. Court records show that on 11 July 2024 the defendant withdrew TOP$11,400 by cheque in relation to the workshop allowances.

Evidence presented to the court established that at the time of the workshop, Lino was on leave and travelling in Australia and did not attend the workshop. The remaining four representatives were present.

The prosecution said the defendant later distributed varying amounts of money to those who attended. Fatafehi Latu received TOP$1,000; Veapina Fifita received TOP$1,800; Lesieli Setaleki received TOP$1,800; and Veisinia Tonga received TOP$1,400.

On 26 July 2024, the accused submitted financial acquittal documents by email to the TASP. These included a travel allowance signing sheet indicating that each of the five outer island representatives had received TOP$2,000, totalling TOP$10,000. The document also bore signatures purported to be those of the representatives and of the MFF director, Betty Blake.

However, the prosecution told the court that the document, reproduced on page six of the court book, was prepared by the defendant and contained false information. Evidence showed that Mikaela Lino neither attended the workshop nor received any allowance; that none of the representatives received the TOP$2,000 recorded on the form; and that the signature attributed to director Betty Blake was not hers.

The prosecution alleged the defendant forged the document and submitted it to TASP with the intent to deceive the agency into accepting it as a genuine and accurate financial record.

It was further alleged that the defendant dishonestly appropriated TOP$4,000 for personal use, having received a total of TOP$20,000 in funds while distributing only TOP$16,000 to the representatives.

Justice Garlick KC delivered the verdict on 23 February, concluding that the prosecution had proven each charge beyond reasonable doubt.

The judge found that the document was created with the intent to deceive and submitted so TASP would act on it as genuine.

Sentencing has been adjourned pending a pre‑sentence report.

Talafo’ou man arrested for alleged meth and cannabis dealing

By
Kaniva Staff
-

Police have arrested a 34‑year‑old man from Talafo’ou following an operation on 26 February 2026.

He is alleged to have been selling methamphetamine and cannabis in the Talafo’ou and Navutoka communities.

Police carried out an operation and searched the man’s residence.

They located illicit drugs, drug‑related utensils and cash believed to be proceeds of crime.

The suspect has been arrested and charged, and investigations remain ongoing.

Tonga Police said the arrest reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to disrupting illegal drug activity and protecting the wellbeing of communities.

For further media inquiries, the public is advised to contact the Tonga Police Media & Public Relations Office on 740‑1613.

Tongan publication raises unverified drug‑link claim about missing boat; authorities report no evidence

By
Kalino Latu
-

A Tongan online newspaper has claimed that a recently located missing boat may have been connected to local drug trafficking — a claim that remains unverified by authorities.

The 11.5‑metre wooden vessel, Mysterious Wonder, left Tongatapu on 8 February. Authorities were alerted on 17 February that the boat was missing, prompting the multinational search effort.

Kakalu ‘o Tonga reported the allegations, however, Kaniva News has been unable to obtain further information beyond the brief abstract available, as the paper’s full article remains behind a paywall.

In this case, it remains unclear whether the outlet has provided any evidence to support its allegation, and no official agency has corroborated the claim.

Kaniva News emphasises that there is no verified information linking the vessel or its occupants to any criminal activity.

The allegation remains unsubstantiated, and authorities have not indicated that the case involves drugs or wrongdoing.

As the case of the missing boat unfolded, Tonga Police remained cautious in their public statements, declining to release the names of the rescued passengers and the missing individual, and withholding any details gathered so far about why the vessel was at sea.

The crew on board the 11.5-metre wooden boat named Mysterious Wonder were reported to have left Tongatapu, Tonga, on 8 February. Authorities were notified on February 17 that the vessel was missing.

The boat was located last week by a New Zealand Defence Force aircraft, which assisted in the rescue of two people, while a third passenger remains missing.

According to a NZDF spokesperson, Commodore Shane Arndell the men, who were fisherman in the 20s-30s, were tired and hungry, but deemed to be in a good state after a medical check and a feed.

“I suspect they’d been at sea for a few days, but other than that they look like they’re fit and strong, and just have been through an experience that nobody wants to experience,” RNZ reported Arndell as saying.

Neither the Tonga Police nor the NZDF has made any reference to criminal activity in their public statements about the search operation.

The P-8A was on a mission to surveil illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing before it was diverted.

NZDF reported yesterday that a P-8A had carried out a successful patrol for fishing boats in the Pitcairn Islands, where strict marine conservation protections are in place.

They said the crew photographed 14 vessels who are now under assessment for possible illegal activity.

RNZ reporting on the missing Tongan boat similarly focused on the search effort, stating only that the NZDF and Tongan authorities coordinated the operation to locate the vessel and rescue survivors.

No criminal allegation was included in any official update.

Tongatapu man convicted after machete attack in family eviction dispute

By
Kalino Latu
-

A dispute over the removal of a family parent from a home escalated into shouting profanities and an alleged machete attack, landing Viliami Taukei’aho in court with a conviction.

Justice Tupou KC found him guilty on two counts: serious causing bodily harm and common assault, arising from an incident on 13 February 2024.

The court heard that earlier in the day in Pea town, an argument took place at the home of Taukei’aho’s brother, Koloni.

Koloni and his wife Vaokakala were living in the house along with his parents, Sioeli Tupouhia and Naomi. Vaokakala’s brother, Tomasi Kitekei’aho, and his family had also been staying there while helping to build the home.

Tensions escalated when Koloni’s father, Tupouhia, became upset after being told to move out of the property.

Taukei’aho, who is Sioeli’s son, arrived at the house armed with a machete after collecting Sioeli from his own residence.

He confronted Vaokakala, his sister‑in‑law, demanding answers about the dispute involving their parents.

Witnesses told the court Taukei’aho was shouting profanities and threatening to cut the family “into pieces”.

Attempted Assault on Vaokakala

As Taukei’aho approached the front veranda, he lifted the machete and swung it toward Vaokakala, who ducked to avoid being struck.

The blade instead hit the wooden gate, leaving a visible cut.

Justice Tupou found that, although Taukei’aho may not have intended to seriously injure Vaokakala, his actions caused her to fear immediate violence.

“Assault is committed when the defendant intentionally or recklessly causes another to apprehend immediate and unlawful violence,” the judge said, concluding that the attempt to strike her was intentional and unlawful.

Chase and Injury to Tomasi

After pushing Vaokakala aside, Taukei’aho pursued Tomasi, who attempted to escape by jumping over the veranda railings. As he leaped, Taukei’aho swung the machete a second time.

Tomasi felt the blade strike the base of his right foot and later noticed a trail of blood as he ran to safety. His wife, Fai’ana, also witnessed the moment the machete hit Tomasi’s foot.

A medical report from Dr ‘Eliesa Ma’u confirmed lacerations to Tomasi’s first and second toes consistent with a sharp‑bladed weapon.

The defence argued that Tomasi may have been cut by stones, glass or roofing iron during his escape, but the judge rejected this as speculative and unsupported.

Credibility of Witnesses

Justice Tupou said she found Fai’ana to be a reliable and credible witness whose evidence was consistent and convincing. Tomasi’s evidence was also accepted, except for a minor inconsistency about how the gate was opened.

The defendant admitted swinging the machete twice but claimed he only intended to scare the family because they were “mocking him”.

The judge ruled the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that the injury was caused by Taukei’aho’s machete and that the attack was fuelled by anger over his parents being asked to leave the property.

Justice Tupou said the violence stemmed from an unresolved family dispute that “got out of hand”, but stressed the court could not sympathise with those who take the law into their own hands.

The judge found Taukei’aho guilty on both charges. Count 1, causing serious bodily harm, related to injuring Tomasi with a machete during the dispute. Count 2, common assault, was laid for his attempt to strike Vaokakala during the same incident.

Taukei’aho now awaits sentencing.

1...141516...950Page 15 of 950
© Copyright 2026 Kaniva Tonga News & Entertainment