Customs Intercepts Prohibited Drugs and Paraphernalia at Faleolo Airport

Apia, SAMOA – 12 February 2026 – The Ministry of Customs seized 90grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia from a passenger who arrived at Faleolo International Airport on a Fiji Airways flight yesterday.

Customs officers intercepted a 43-year-old male passenger, during routine border clearance processes.

The passenger is a Samoan national, who holds a New Zealand passport and is currently residing in Australia, and was found to be in possession of six (6) bottles containing marijuana, along with a cannabis grinder and rolling papers.

The items, which are deemed prohibited goods, were detected during standard screening and examination processes conducted by frontline Customs officers. The substances and associated paraphernalia were seized in accordance with the Customs Act and Narcotics Act.

The Chief Executive Officer of Customs commended the vigilance and professionalism of the officers involved, emphasizing that this seizure reflects Customs’ ongoing commitment to protecting Samoa’s borders from the importation of illicit drugs and prohibited goods.

“We continue to utilize risk profiling, intelligence, and screening technologies to safeguard our communities from the harmful impacts of drugs,” the CEO stated.

Customs reminds all travelers that the importation of illicit drugs and related paraphernalia into Samoa is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties under the relevant laws.

Travelers are urged to declare all goods accurately and to familiarize themselves with Samoa’s import restrictions prior to travel.

Samoa Customs will continue working closely with partner agencies to ensure the safety and security of our borders and the well-being of the Samoan public.

The suspected passenger is now in Police custody for further investigations and questioning.