Police conducted a successful raid in Lotopa, leading to the arrest of three individuals—a pair of men and a woman. 

The suspects face serious charges, including possession of methamphetamine, as well as related drug paraphernalia such as pipes and utensils.

The Samoa Observer was alerted to the raid by a concerned resident on Friday, prompting us to seek further details from Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo. 

According to Auapa'au, police conducted the raid in response to queries from the public. 

The individuals were apprehended by police during the raid and have been formally charged. 

While the woman has been granted bail, the two men remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court on September 25th.

Auapa'au voiced ongoing concerns about the rising incidence of drug possession in Samoa, underscoring the broader issue of increasing drug-related offences in the region. 

Last week, Police Commissioner Auapa'au revealed that the central focus of a regional police chiefs' conference was the alarming issue of drug trafficking. 

Specifically, the discussions centred on how Samoa and neighbouring regions have become key transit points for narcotics destined for larger markets such as Australia and New Zealand.

He emphasised the gravity of the situation, noting that it is a significant concern for law enforcement agencies across the region. 

He reported that the conference participants reached a consensus on the urgency of the matter and committed to a united, collaborative approach to combat this growing problem. The goal is to enhance regional cooperation and implement more effective strategies to curb drug trafficking and its impact on the communities involved.