A Fijian national has been taken into police custody following the discovery of illicit drugs and related paraphernalia at the Faleolo Regional Airport.

The arrest was confirmed by Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo in response to inquiries from the Samoa Observer. The incident occurred on Thursday when frontline customs officers from the Ministry of Customs and Revenue (MCR) intercepted a zip-lock bag containing methamphetamine and a pipe used for smoking the substance. 

The passenger had arrived from American Samoa and was transiting through Samoa with New Zealand as his final intended destination.

According to Commissioner Auapa'au, as of Thursday evening, police were actively conducting interviews with the suspect and finalising charges, which could include possession of illicit substances, possession of drug-related utensils, and smuggling.

A statement released by the MCR confirmed that the illicit drugs were detected during routine inspections by customs officers, reinforcing their commitment to stringent border security measures.

“The passenger was immediately detained, and the matter has been referred to the Ministry of Police, Prison, and Corrections Service for further investigation,” the statement read.

This latest interception marks the fifth drug-related seizure by the Ministry of Customs and Revenue (M.C.R.) since January, highlighting the increasing vigilance of Samoan authorities against transnational crime, particularly drug trafficking.

MCR Chief Executive Officer Fonoti Talaitupu Taeau underscored the crucial role of customs officers in safeguarding Samoa’s borders and protecting local communities from the harmful impact of illegal drugs.

“This seizure highlights the vital role that Customs Officers play at the border in preventing illicit drugs from harming our communities,” said Fonoti.

Authorities remain committed to enhancing border security and ensuring that Samoa does not become a conduit for drug trafficking. 

The latest arrest serves as a warning to those attempting to smuggle illegal substances that stringent inspections and robust law enforcement measures are in place to thwart such activities.