A lawmaker in American Samoa has suggested student bag searches to combat drugs.
Pago Pago, American Samoa. Camel Rock near the village of Lauli'i. Photo: Copyright: sorincolac / 123RF Stock Photo
Vesi Talalelei Fautanu Jr told an education committee hearing it was no joke or rumour that drugs are on school campuses and are found in students' bags.
The Manu'a lawmaker suggested all students bags should be subject to health and welfare inspections.
He said he suspected most would contain packets of cigarettes and he wouldn't be surprised if drugs and guns were discovered.
He also told the committee one school security official said nothing could be done about students smoking on campus because most teachers also smoke on campus.
Smoking is banned in American Samoa in public places, including schools.