Pacific

Tonga police chief says drugs bust a major disruption to the trade

14:28 pm on 11 February 2011

Tonga's police commander says a four kilogramme illegal drug seizure is a major disruption to the drug trade.

Chris Kelley says an investigation into the sale, supply and distribution of illicit drugs in Tongatapu last week culminated in two arrests and the discovery of the drugs in a house and car.

He says preliminary tests suggest the drugs are methamphetamine and cocaine but confirmation will require more analysis overseas.

Commander Kelley says the size of the haul would suggest that part of it was destined for overseas.

"I'd like to think that the results we're showing, by making arrests, by prosecuting people, by taking firm action, are an indication that our enforcement is working. It's not the only solution, I think education is really the primary solution but it's certainly a major arm of trying to break these drug syndicates and stop Tonga being used as it has been in the past."

Tonga's police commander, Chris Kelley.