Police on alert for anticipated Toa Samoa fans weekend parades

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 17 NOVEMBER 2022: The police are gearing-up to monitor expected weekend supporters parades and celebrations of the Toa Samoa’s World Rugby League finals against Australia on Sunday morning.

The Deputy Police Commissioner, Papalii Monalisa Keti said all off-duty police officers on the weekend will be recalled for this special operation.

“We will increase the number of police officers on the streets,” she said.

She noted that the operational alert is for the whole country, especially that they have been informed that several villages are planning to organize their own parades.

Papali’i reminded the public that their safety is of utmost priority and she referred to an incident during last weekend’s parade in-front of the Samoa Commercial Bank where a man fell off a moving truck.

“Luckily it was not serious,” she said.

She calls on the country to work together with the police to support the team and celebrate responsibly in a safe environment for everyone and to be mindful it will be Sunday where worshippers will be in church.

As of today, police have yet to receive any application for permits to hold any parades this coming weekend.

No permit for last Sunday’s parade 
Papalii confirmed that only three permits were issued for last Saturday’s parade, but none for Sunday.

She confirmed there were complaints lodged with the police by residents in the town area on last Sunday morning and evening parades which police did not issue any permits.

Asked if the Sunday parade was illegal and if there were any arrests, Papalii said the event was unexpected.

“We did not expect the Sunday parade, and police did not want to ruin the public’s excitement, especially since it was the first time Samoa has made it this far in the World Rugby League,” said Papalii.

She said the emphasis is on safety and as long as they abide by the conditions in the permits.

She also put emphasis on unlicensed vehicles and unlicensed drivers.

“Having a permit to participate in the parade does not allow unlicensed vehicles or unlicensed people to join the parade or go out of control,” she said.

She said police will step in and even arrest people if they went out of control and endanger public safety.