A firefighter who was placed on probation due to alleged domestic violence charges has been detained in police custody following a serious breach of probationary conditions.

This relates to a previous article published by the publication concerning a terrified mother who suffered abuse by her abusive partner together with her four children.

Walter Matamua, a civil servant employed at the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA), was taken into custody at TanumalalaPprison.

Ministry of Justice Courts and Administration (M.J.C.A.) Assistant Chief Executive Officer for Corrections, Enforcement and Maintenance, Fa’agutu Samuelu Va’alotu confirmed the decision of the Parole Board. 

This followed a hearing on Thursday before the Parole Board which was closed to the media. 

Ms. Va’alotu said the decision from the Parole Board was based on Matamua's non-compliance and serious violation of probation conditions. 

In an interview with SFESA Commissioner, Tanuvasa Petone Mauga, he stated that although the infringement had nothing to do with his employment, they do not condone such behaviour.

"We have policies and procedures to safeguard and protect staff members in all circumstances.  I guarantee not to engage prematurely and will do everything necessary to put things fair," he said.

"He was suspended for an incident related to his service, was only recently reinstated for approximately a week, and is now back in the custody of the police.

"More so than ever before, it is clear that domestic violence is a problem that our country must take on with vigor."