Eight men are in the custody of a correctional centre in Vanuatu's northern town of Luganville, following the burning of a church and the assault of church members in Santo.
A police spokesperson, northern commander Willie Pakoa Samuel, says the incident happened after a domestic dispute between a chief and his wife about New Year's celebrations.
It's alleged the chief provided alcohol to the suspects then ordered them to burn down the church and other buildings and assault church members.
A church leader was seriously injured during the attack and admitted to Northern District Hospital in Luganville.
Police are continuing their investigations.
The church building belongs to the Pillar Of Life Ministry.
