Sunia Mano To’ofohe, 45, is facing 15 charges after a police operation allegedly uncovered over half a million dollars in cash, large quantities of drugs, and a firearm during searches of his car, home, and phone.
To’ofohe, who is accused of leading a large-scale drug-dealing operation, was stopped by police in May 2023 as part of Operation Elusive. Authorities claim they found 29g of methamphetamine, 5.9g of cocaine, 23 Oxycodone pills, and nearly $126,000 in cash in his vehicle.
A later search of his Lower Hutt flat reportedly yielded 11kg of methamphetamine, along with LSD, GBL, cannabis, a rifle, and an additional $547,000 in cash. Police also allege that To’ofohe’s cellphone contained photos showing methamphetamine being weighed and packaged in early 2023.
The Crown argues that To’ofohe supplied almost a kilogram of methamphetamine over several months, with evidence of transactions to at least one individual. Prosecutor Lee van der Lem also pointed to handwritten records of drug dealings and a stocktake of methamphetamine in early 2023.
Despite denying the charges, To’ofohe’s lawyer, Keith Jefferies, criticized the police handling of the case, claiming “serious difficulties” with evidence handling and scientific analysis.
The trial, held at the High Court in Wellington before Justice Cheryl Gwyn, continues this week.
