Police ask for more time to finalise conspiracy to murder charges

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 21 September 2026 – Justice Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma has granted the police application for time to finalise the conspiracy to murder charges against two men allegedly linked to the alleged shooting murder of Lemalu Lorenzo Tovia in Ho Chi Minh City on 21 May 2026.

The pair, James Tuisavailuu Atua – a New Zealand national, 31 and Fred Oliver Papalii – a Samoan national, 33, were charged on 10 September 2026.

Both defendants appeared in court today and the matter has been adjourned to 28 September 2026 for police to finalize charges.

It was noted in court that Samoa Police officially charged Fred and James with conspiracy to murder on 16 September 2026 following a joint investigation with the Australian Federal Police.

The offence carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Both defendants are remanded at liberty on strict bail conditions.