The Ministry of Police has approved the establishment of a permanent police unit at the Faleolo International Airport after a woman breached security and flew to Fiji.

Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo, said the incident at the country's main international gateway was a wakeup call and prompted the deployment of a police unit to boost security at the airport. 

He told the Samoa Observer that the reputation of Samoa’s international airport is also at stake, given the incident meant international civil aviation protocols and standards were not met. 

“We reviewed our processes and have assigned the team at the airport,” Auapaau said. “Under International Civil Aviation law there should be police stationed at the international airport which we have moved to do. 

“We are finalising an office space at the airport with A.A. for our airport team to be stationed at so they are able to offer support for our international airport security.” 

Looking to the future, the Police Commissioner said it was crucial that Samoa is prepared for CHOGM in 2024 and these are necessary steps the police force has to take to prepare for the summit. 

Meanwhile, the investigation into how a 24-year-old woman managed to bypass security and fly to Fiji without going through proper screening process is ongoing. 

Auapaau said the delay is due to other ministries officials being interviewed. 

He said once that is done police should be in a better position to confirm what charges they will pursue.