In a firm response to recent conspiracy theories circulating on social media, Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo denied any involvement of the Prime Minister in a high-profile murder case involving playwright Sia Figiel in May 2024. 

Police have identified the people behind the rumour and said they will be charged for spreading false information.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer on Wednesday evening, Auapa'au condemned the unfounded claims, emphasising the seriousness of the allegations and the detrimental impact they have had on public trust in the justice system.

The case which involves the death of Professor Caroline Sinavaiana Gabbard, currently before the courts has been the subject of intense public scrutiny. 

According to police reports, Gabbard, 78, was brutally beaten and stabbed, with a hammer and a small knife allegedly used as weapons. 

Police have charged well-known playwright Sia Figiel, 58, in connection with the murder, which took place at Gabbard’s home. 

Figiel is accused of leaving the victim’s body at her residence before going to Lotofaga to spend time with a "friend", whom she later confided in. The friend reportedly assisted police in retrieving the body and reporting the incident.

Despite the ongoing court proceedings, which were recently postponed until August 2025 to allow the prosecution time to review Figiel’s medical records, social media rumours have escalated. 

These rumours suggest the Prime Minister may have been involved in the murder case, a claim that Auapa'au denied.

“These allegations are completely unfounded,” said the Police Commissioner. “We are aware of the conspiracy theories circulating online and are actively investigating who is behind these false claims. There is no evidence to support such allegations, and we are determined to hold those responsible accountable.”

Auapa'au expressed grave concern over the harm these rumours could cause, not only to the Ministry of Police but also to the integrity of the ongoing investigation. 

He pointed out that the case is still before the court and the public should refrain from spreading misinformation that could jeopardise the legal process.

"These are serious allegations, and the individuals who have fabricated and spread these rumours must be held accountable," he added. “People have gone out of their way to create false narratives that not only tarnish the credibility of the police investigation but also directly implicate the Prime Minister without any solid proof.”

The Police Commissioner also referenced a letter received from an individual who had been charged in a separate matter, claiming to be a key witness in the case. The letter alleged that the Prime Minister was involved in the murder, but Auapa'au stressed that no evidence had been found to substantiate these claims.

He also clarified the role of the friend with whom Figiel spent time after the murder. 

The friend had been cooperative with the police, reporting the incident and assisting in the recovery of the deceased’s body. This collaboration helped advance the investigation, which has since been handed over to the courts.

While the case remains ongoing, Auapa'au underscored the importance of letting the legal system run its course without interference from groundless accusations. 

“We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served, but we will also take action against those who seek to undermine the process by spreading harmful and false information.

"These are desperate attempts to defame the Prime Minister during the current political crisis in Samoa. It's very disappointing and those responsible must be brought to light and be charged."

As for the trial of Sia Figiel, it has been delayed until August 2025 to allow the prosecution to thoroughly review her medical records, including those about her mental health. 

Figiel will remain in custody until her next court appearance.

With the growing concerns over misinformation, the police investigation continues to focus on identifying those who have spread inaccurate claims. Auapa'au has confirmed that charges will be laid against individuals involved in the dissemination of these falsehoods by the end of this week.

The Prime Minister, whose name has been dragged into the controversy without any substantiated evidence, has yet to comment on the ongoing rumours. However, the police have made it clear that they are working diligently to resolve the situation.