There were 80 cases reported to the Ministry of Police and Prisons during Christmas last year compared to the same period in 2022, says Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo. 

Police Commissioner Auapaau said police responded to a total of 80 cases reported to the ministry, including the alleged drowning incident at Nofoali'i on Christmas day. 

Of the 80 cases reported, a total of 44 were taken in by police for cases such as driving under the influence, assault, possession of illegal drugs, insulting words, theft, and others. 

In DUI cases, they were caught by police during their roadblocks. 

Despite this, Auapaau said it was a peaceful Christmas for Samoa and only one death during the reported period. 

For the unfortunate tragedy at Nofoali'i on Christmas day, Auapaau confirmed that the Coroner has ordered a postmortem on the body of the 31-year-old father of two as there were bruises on his eyes when he was taken to the hospital. 

While he confirmed that their preliminary findings ruled out any foul play suspected, Auapaau said they will wait for the autopsy as ordered by the Coroner. 

Police have yet to compile data on incidents that were reported to the ministry leading up to New Year's.