Police are probing the circumstances surrounding the death of a man in his forties from Nu'u-Fou, who was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital earlier this week. 

The case has raised serious questions and sparked public speculation, leading to an urgent investigation by local police. While some members of the public claim the man was alive before his arrest, the police said the man was found unconscious.

Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo, responding to inquiries from the Samoa Observer, confirmed that the exact cause of death has not yet been determined. 

The situation became particularly contentious after members of the community alleged that the man was taken into custody by police shortly before his death.

Clarifying the incident, Auapa'au explained that police had received multiple calls from concerned citizens regarding the man’s behaviour. 

"The deceased was reported to be heavily intoxicated and causing disturbances," he stated. "Upon arriving at the scene in Moamoa, officers found the man unconscious on the ground. He was promptly transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival."

While Auapa'au confirmed that the deceased had been intoxicated, he also indicated that there may be other factors at play. 

"We suspect he may have consumed illegal substances as well," he noted, adding that further details would be available once the Coroner’s report is completed. 

"That information can be confirmed when we get the Coroner's report," Auapa'au said.

Residents in Nu'u have expressed mixed emotions about the tragedy. One local, speaking anonymously for safety reasons, shared her observations about the deceased's behaviour. 

"He was always drunk and frequently fought with his relatives, causing trouble in the area," she said. While she acknowledged the sadness surrounding his passing, she was not surprised by the police intervention. 

"It's sad, but we weren't shocked that he was taken by police for being drunk in public and causing issues."

The community’s reaction reflects a deeper concern about public safety and the challenges posed by substance abuse. As the investigation unfolds, many are left wondering what led to this unfortunate outcome and whether there are systemic issues that need to be addressed.