An investigation into the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine and other illicit drugs in Tonga during Christmas and New Year holidays has led to the arrest of 20 people.
Police officers from the Drugs Taskforce with assistance of sniffer dogs executed search warrants at various properties and locations in Vava’u and Tongatapu.
As a result of the investigation, called Christmas and New Year Operation, and the search warrants, people aged between 16 and 51, have been arrested.
Kaniva News reports Police seized 189.99 grams of cannabis and 2.7 grams of methamphetamine.
The Drugs Taskforce also seized two firearms, a .22 rifle and a revolver, ammunition, cash and stolen goods.
Deputy Commissioner Pelenatita Vaisuai said: “Drugs have no place in our community, they destroy the lives of the users, harming our children, and our communities. We hope these arrests will bring some reassurance to the community.
“The harm that methamphetamine causes in our community cannot be overstated and Police will not stand by and let these individuals sell illicit drugs and accumulate wealth at the expense of the vulnerable members of our community.
“We would urge anyone who has concerns about drugs related activity in their neighborhood to call Police, we cannot do this alone and we need your help to combat the problems caused by drugs in our community.”