Tonga Police have arrested 17 individuals in connection with a significant methamphetamine import operation into the Kingdom, according to a statement released today. Over the past week, the Tonga Police Drugs Squad, in collaboration with the Ministry of Revenue & Customs, uncovered illicit activities involving the importation, sale, and distribution of methamphetamine, as well as the laundering of proceeds through individuals and businesses.
On August 9, 2024, multiple raids were conducted in Tongatapu, leading to the seizure of 2.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, which had been imported in a crate from the United States. The raids resulted in the arrests of three individuals, including a Customs Officer and a HM Prisons Officer. Evidence suggests that the operation was organised from within Hu’atolitoli Prison by a current inmate. Firearms and ammunition were also discovered during the raids.
Further raids on August 13 and 14 led to the arrest of 13 more suspects, including four females and nine males aged between 22 and 48. Police seized an additional 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with eight vehicles, a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, TOP$12,058 in cash, cash counting machines, mobile phones, and drug paraphernalia.
Four jackets associated with the Comanchero Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG) were also confiscated. Two suspects are alleged members of the Comanchero OMCG, and two others face charges related to a prior seizure of over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine in April 2024.
On August 15, police seized Comanchero-branded clothing from a storage unit in Ma’ufanga, linked to an arrested suspect. The next day, a prominent businessman was arrested for money laundering at his offices in ‘Umusi, accused of facilitating payments to drug importers in the U.S. Finally, on August 17, a male suspect returning from the U.S. was arrested in Hofoa for his involvement in the August 13 methamphetamine importation.
All suspects are currently in police custody. Tonga Police issued a strong warning to organised crime syndicates and OMCGs, stating they will not tolerate illegal activities and are committed to bringing those involved in drug trafficking and money laundering to justice.
The public is urged to report any information related to illicit drug activities or gang involvement to Tonga Police.
