A 36 year old male of Vaitele-uta and Fasitoo-uta has been charged for importing 1.4 kilograms of methamphetamine from American Samoa in a targeted operation by Samoa’s Customs and Border Control authorities.
The drugs were hidden in a box of frozen chicken, confiscated in a shipment that arrived from American Samoa in the early hours of Saturday 22 November 2025.
The male ia charged with possession of narcotics and importation of prohibited goods.
He has been remanded in custody until the 8th December 2025 for court mention.
“The concealment method demonstrates the continued attempts by criminal syndicates to smuggle dangerous drugs into Samoa through seemingly ordinary goods,” said CEO of Samoa’s Ministry of Customs & Revenue, Fonoti Talaitupu Lia Taefu.
The Samoa Police, Prisons and Correction Service (SPPCS) Narcotics Unit is working collaboratively with border officials to ensure the drug importer is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“We acknowledge the efforts of our border agencies in disrupting illegal drugs from infiltrating our borders and our communities,” said Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga.
“The fight against illicit drugs is a whole of Samoa effort. We must stand together to bring those individuals to justice..
“The cowardice actions of a small number of Samoan criminals involved in the illegal trade of drugs has a huge impact on the overall safety of our community.”
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt raised the issue of drug trafficking and the increasing cases of narcotics in Samoa.
Pre Christmas Specials
- Justice Alalatoa Rosella Papalii Receives Distinguished Alumni Award - October 11, 2026
- Samoa Wins Best Host Country Recognition at Miss Global - October 9, 2026
- ‘Ia Manumalo’: Signature Choir Releases New Anthem - October 9, 2026
