On August 5, 2024, an illicit drug and related utensils were found in a vehicle at Hu’atolitoli Prison, allegedly linked to a Recruit Prison Officer. As a result, he was suspended on August 6, 2024. This discovery led to further revelations of prison officers allegedly accepting bribes and aiding in trafficking illicit drugs into the prison, seriously compromising security.
On September 6, 2024, two additional officers, “Prison Officer A” and “Recruit Prison Officer B,” were suspended. Prison Officer A, who is currently overseas, is being reported to immigration authorities to ensure public safety. The internal investigation of Recruit Prison Officer B has been handed over to Tonga Police for further criminal investigation.
The prison authorities are continuing their investigation into other officers suspected of drug-related offences, aiming to maintain the integrity and security of the prison system.
Source: Tonga Prisons
