Pacific

Tonga's Police Commander confirms one officer is under investigation

09:30 am on 25 March 2010

Tonga's Police Commander has confirmed at least one officer is under investigation for the alleged theft of an exhibit in a drug case.

This comes amid revelations that 32 members of the 400 strong force are facing serious allegations that could cost them their jobs.

Commander Chris Kelley says the drugs, a small quantity of marijuana, were removed from the Nuku'alofa police station.

"That is an inquiry that has been going on for some time. I am not able to comment in depth because we do have at least one officer before the court currently in respect to that matter, but I can confirm that a drug exhibit was removed unlawfully from the police station."

Tonga's Police Commander, Chris Kelly.