24 arrested in latest police crackdown on illegal drugs

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 23 May 2026 – The Police has been actively cracking down on illegal drugs across the country resulting in the arrest of 24 individuals, 19 men and 5 women aged between 16 and 55 years old.

Since 26 May 2026, police carried out 11 raids, seizing various items, including methamphetamine, marijuana, and utensils used for measuring and taking drugs.

Despite the seizures, police acknowledge that the amount of drugs recovered remains small.

However, the Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga emphasized that every seizure counts in the fight against illegal drugs.

He also clarified the contentious issue of posting mugshots of those arrested on the police Facebook page.

“The purpose of sharing these images is to raise public awareness and encourage community assistance in the ongoing fight against drug-related offenses,” he explained.

Leiataua reassured the public that police raids will continue until Samoa is free of drugs and emphasized that the police are committed to their mission and will not rest until the island is safe from drug trafficking and related crimes.

Some of the utensils seized by police in their recent raids.

Asked by the media whether the mugshots posted on Facebook are only for drug-related cases or police can extend to include individuals involved in other crimes, such as break-ins and possession of unregistered firearms.

Leiataua explained that some individuals featured in the mugshots are not necessarily arrested for drug offenses alone and many are under surveillance for various crimes, which may be linked to drug activities.

“Even if no drugs were found during a raid, police may discover these individuals are associated with other offenses,” he said.

He added that displaying mugshots is a strategic investigation tool.

It allows the public to recognize suspects and encourages community members to come forward with information that can assist police investigations.

Though recent raids have recovered less meth than before, Leiataua expressed concern that the drug remains present in Samoa.

He acknowledged that some traffickers might be laying low during police operations but emphasized that the police will persist with their efforts.

“Every seizure, no matter how small, is valuable in disrupting drug supply,” Leiataua said.

Leiataua also highlighted the importance of community cooperation and support in police investigations.

The police station receives more than six calls from the public daily, most of which provide valuable information for ongoing investigations.