Five Police Officers Deployed on UN Peacekeeping Mission

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 22 October 2026 – Five more Samoan police officers have been recruited under the United Nations peacekeeping mission overseas.

The team will be led by Inspector Faamatala Vaalele-Tuvale and includes Senior Sergeant Faafetai Opeta Auvaa, Sergeant Faatonu Leava, Corporal Saisirita Uelese Tufuga and Constable Pulemau Vito Utai.

Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga is urging the team to serve with dignity and to uphold Samoa’s reputation through their conduct and professionalism.

“While you are deployed overseas, behave in a way that upholds the good reputation of Samoa,” he said.

Leiataua acknowledged the sacrifices the officers and their families would make during their time apart, reminding them that their deployment represents a greater commitment to serving their organisation while proudly representing Samoa abroad.

He also stressed the importance of respecting the laws, cultures and traditions of their host nation.

He reminded the officers to maintain the high standards of professionalism expected of United Nations peacekeepers throughout their service.

“Support one another, remain disciplined in the face of challenges and draw strength from the support and sacrifices of your family and loved ones who will be left behind” Leiataua said.

He urged them to draw strength from the support and sacrifices of the family members and loved ones they would leave behind.

Samoa has participated in United Nations peacekeeping for 26 years, since signing an agreement with the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations in February 2000 and deploying its first police officers to East Timor in June 2000.