Samoa Airways boss Faoo Fatu Tielu denied allegations that he holds shares with competitor Talofa Airways and is pursuing legal action to defend his position against a person spreading the fake news. 

In a series of social media posts on Facebook, former police officer Mau Hunt claimed the Samoa Airways Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Faoo holds shares in Talofa Airways. 

Hunt also implied this was the reason why the national carrier paid $30,000 to its competitor to charter a flight when positive drug tests grounded its scheduled flights this month. 

In a press statement, Fauo’o countered the allegations claiming it was “entirely unfounded and malicious, designed to undermine the leadership and integrity of Samoa Airways”. 

The airline maintains its CEO and management operates with the highest standard of professionalism and ethics. 

Hunt had recently accused  Samoa Airways of allegedly transporting drugs in an empty coffin from American Samoa bound for Apia. 

The accusations were made on a Facebook post viewed by more than 35,000 people and attracted comments from individuals who expressed disappointment in the airline’s operation.  

Hunt claimed to have received information from inside sources in the airline. The allegation was dismissed by Samoa Airways and a complaint was filed with the police. 

Samoa Airways has written to the police to formally charge Hunt for making unsubstantiated allegations. 

“This post has generated considerable concern and confusion, both within the local community and among Samoa Airways staff,” said the letter of complaint from the airline. 

“Hunt’s allegations seem to be aimed at undermining the reputation of the airline, casting doubt on a legitimate shipment without any supporting evidence. 

“Such baseless accusations have the potential to damage the reputation of a respected national carrier and foster unnecessary fear and mistrust among the public.”

Samoa Airways had to ground its scheduled flights earlier this month after receipt of drug tests that showed 10per cent of tested staff were positive for illicit drugs (three staff), alcohol (six) and one other had prescription medicine (sleeping pill) in his system.

According to the CEO, the decision to ground their flights was a responsible call for the safety of travellers being a priority.