Australian Shane McLennan has concluded his role as Tonga’s Police Commissioner, marking the end of a distinguished 47-year policing career.
A farewell parade was held at the Tonga Police College in Longolongo on Friday, 9 May, attended by Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, and senior police officers. McLennan, 62, bid an emotional farewell to his colleagues, whom he referred to as family.
The Australian High Commission in Tonga praised McLennan’s leadership, stating: “Today we were honoured to celebrate your 47 years in policing and the end of your tenure as Tonga’s Police Commissioner.” They highlighted his contributions to safer communities across Tonga, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste.
The New Zealand High Commission acknowledged his efforts in advancing gender equality within the force, noting: “Under his leadership, we’ve seen more women stepping into senior leadership roles and more female than male police recruits.”
Appointed in May 2022, McLennan was the first Australian to serve as Tonga’s Police Commissioner, following three New Zealanders in the role. His tenure focused on modernising the force, enhancing cybercrime capabilities, and fostering regional cooperation.
McLennan’s departure leaves a legacy of a more inclusive and capable Tonga Police, poised to continue its mission of ensuring community safety.
