The lawyer for the man arrested and detained by police for discharging a firearm at the Faleolo International Airport claimed that he was brutally beaten by police.

A disturbing photo was posted on social media by Toese Tufuga's counsel, Unasa Iuni Sapolu, showing visible injuries to his face.

Unasa said Toese claimed that he was brutally beaten by police, which caused blurry vision in his right eye from swelling.

"My client's right eye is badly swollen and his sight is almost all gone,” said Unasa in response to Samoa Observer's questions about the matter.

Unasa claimed that her client was accusing a police officer named "Tyrone" as the one who kicked him in the face.

Unasa elaborated that Toese was kicked and punched by police officers when he was arrested.

"A warrant to arrest is not a warrant to violate and be brutal towards those arrested," Unasa said.

Toese was put on the wanted list by the police. He was allegedly captured by the police along with other men who were allegedly harbouring him.

He was labelled a member of the Mongrel Mob in New Zealand and has outstanding warrants against him.

Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo wasn't available to comment on this matter.