Ex-Cop charged with murder was a suspect in a drug investigation

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 28 DECEMBER 2022: The former police officer charged with last weeks murder of a police woman was on the list of suspects in an internal drug investigation by the Ministry of Police.

The Commissioner of Police, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo confirmed with Talamua today that the officer was quick to resign.

“He was the first to resign from the force when the Ministry launched an internal investigation into allegations of police officers’ involvement with drugs,” said Auapaau.

The Commissioner said although his resignation at the time of the investigation strongly cast suspicion on his involvement, there was not much evidence to charge him.

On the night of the incident where he allegedly shot the police woman, his car was sighted driving in town in a “reckless manner,” said Auapaau.

He could not confirm if a police patrol car chased the accused’s car that night but did confirm that there were complaints against in the way the accused was driving on the road and overtaking other cars in a dangerous manner.

“He (accused) still has not said much about the incident regarding the police woman,” said Auapaau.

Murder on Christmas Day
Meanwhile, A 20 year old male has been charged with murder and is in police custody in relation to the death of a 28 year old male on Christmas morning.

The incident is alleged to have stemmed from differences during a drinking session between the deceased and the accused.

The Commissioner said police are awaiting further information regarding a fire in Savaii early this week. He said there have been several domestic incidents involving alcohol that resulted in physical fights and landing some in hospital for treatment.

Some families had called the police for assistance after family parties went out of control and police had held some people in custody overnight.