The Samoa Police, Prison and Correction Services met with the village of Afega on Monday to ensure that there were no incidents of violence with Leauvaa villagers.

Tensions are high following an alleged assault on a Leauvaa resident by Afega villagers last week. There are close to 20 families in Leauvaa who are occupying land belonging to Afega and the court has made it clear that these people are living there illegally.

This meeting comes after the police's talk with Leauvaa on the same issue in light of bringing peace between the two villages.

The police crew was led by Superintendent Tuaena Lomano Paulo and other senior inspector officers of the Community Engagement Unit.

A member of parliament and village high chief Maulolo Tavita Afamasaga, led the community in accepting the ministry's message and emphasising the significance of maintaining peace and security for our people.

“In light of maintaining peace, the goal is to keep peace amongst each other and safety of everyone," he said.

Last week the village chief of Leauvaa, Tevaga Vailua decried the lack of respect shown by the people working at the Afega road clearance following reports of falling trees on houses as well as unrest disputes between the untitled mens.

Tevaga said the village chiefs of Leuvaa are taking close supervision of their youth residents who have already planned twice to attack the Afega residents.

Police have urged both communities to end the animosity between them and maintain peace going forward.

The works by Afega have destroyed plantations done by the people of Leauvaa and the message from Afega is that those residing illegally have to vacate the land and go elsewhere.

The Leauvaa families have said that they have nowhere to go or do not have the finances to cater for the move. The court ruled that it had been 72 years ago when the initial decision was made in favour of Afega as the landowners.