Tonga Police held its annual Commissioned Officers Conference last week at the Seabreeze, Bay of Manumataongo, focusing on “Leadership and Stewardship in Modern Policing.”
The event brought together officers from across the Kingdom, along with donor partners and guest speakers.

Commissioner of Police Shane McLennan stressed the need for adaptation. “Technology is evolving. We need to embrace the changes in technology and the changes around us, and by doing that, we change our mindset,” he said.
The three-day event featured presentations from District Commanders, who outlined achievements, challenges, and region-specific strategies.

“We cannot fight modern war with weapons of the past,” one officer said, highlighting the urgency of adopting modern techniques.
Guest speakers, including James Lutui, Director of Public Prosecutions, and Commissioner Chris LaHatte of the Anti-Corruption Commission, offered important insights.

Advisors from the Tonga-Australia Policing Partnership (TAPP) and Tonga-New Zealand Police Programme (TNZPP) also contributed.
One of officer participating said, “Each presentation was inspiring and uplifting.”
The conference reinforced unity and encouraged innovative policing strategies.