New police team to investigate unresolved hit and run on hold

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 15 May 2026: The new team selected by the Acting Police Commissioner, Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga to investigate the unresolved hit and run incident at Vaitele on 21 April 2021 has been put on hold.

Prime Minister and Minister of Police, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt confirmed at yesterday’s press conference that there are issues raised in the Court ruling that must be considered for a new and independent investigation into the case.

He said there are people that should be considered as part of the team such as the Attorney General and those who were not involved in the previous investigation.

“This is a major issue, and the selection of the investigation team must be done thoroughly for the sake of justice,” he said.

He said the court has spoken and has pointed out the negligence of the police in conducting the previous investigation.

New Zealand policeman involvement
Laauli also corrected reports that there are no New Zealand police officials involved in the investigation.

“I wrote to New Zealand asking for assistance from the New Zealand police who are working to review five sectors of the ministry with the objective to improve performance and one who will assist the new investigation into the unresolved hit and run case.

A call to the community for information
The Prime Minister said that since the call for a new investigation, some members of the public have already come forward with new information.

He said that the information will be handed over to the new investigation team once it is finalised.

He noted that extent and seriousness of the unresolved hit and run case, had landed him in court and also affecting the Leader of the Opposition, Members of Parliament and others.

It is now five years since the incident and Laauli believes the case should be closed and this will depend on the new investigation.

Laauli also noted the Opposition Leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has made new allegations that the victim of the unresolved hit and run case, was partying at the FAST headquarters where he was killed then dumped at where he was found.

In her ruling, Senior District Court Judge, Talasa Atoa Saaga said that even if the (new) investigation yields no new results, “but the sons and daughters of this nation can rest assured that their lives are precious and that the leaders of this nation (Three Arms of Government) will leave no stone unturned in seeking justice for the atonement of their blood.”