The Central Police Station in Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofa. Photo: RNZI/Gareth Thomas
The police in Tonga are searching for about 10 people who attacked officers on the side of a road.
Police Acting Superintendent Tevita Vailea says officers tried to stop an unlicenced vehicle in Mailetaha yesterday.
Mr Vailea told Radio Tonga that about 10 passengers were in the vehicle, and they started attacking the officers with sharp objects including machetes.
The officers then fled the scene for their safety.
Mr Vailea says the assailants are known to the police, and they are being hunted.