Police have successfully apprehended the 21-year-old man identified as the primary suspect in last Monday's alleged kidnapping of a teenage girl. 

This was confirmed to the Samoa Observer by Police Commissioner, Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo on Friday night. 

Auapa'au also confirmed that the suspect has been formally charged with engaging in sexual activities, with the potential for further charges to be brought against him as the investigation continues.

The suspected kidnapper, Willow Lealofi Faisauvale, also known as Willie Lealofi is from Faleatiu. 

Before he was arrested by police, Willow had posted a video of him claiming he was in a relationship with the victim, a 17-year-old girl from Leauva'a. 

He further claimed that they had been in a serious relationship, indicating that the 17-year-old girl was lying. 

He also refuted claims that he had sexually assaulted the girl. 

In a recent interview, Auapa'au revealed that the victim, who had been reported missing by her family on Monday morning, was promptly transported to the hospital upon her return to the village the following day. 

This swift action underscores the urgency of her condition and the concern for her well-being following her disappearance.

The Police Commissioner indicated that there was a report from the doctor who examined her that supported the victim's statement to the police. 

The case began when the victim, a resident of Leauva’a, was sent by her mother to purchase phone credit from a shop along the main road. 

It is alleged that while she was returning home, a vehicle stopped to ask her for directions. After providing guidance, the suspect reportedly insisted that she enter the car to assist further.

In an interview earlier this week, the victim’s mother expressed her family’s struggle to cope with the trauma of the incident. She described the experience as a “living nightmare” and acknowledged the long road ahead for her daughter in healing from the ordeal. 

However, she conveyed a profound sense of relief that her daughter is safe and alive.