23 Jun 2016

Samoa police investigating death of transgender woman

5:36 pm on 23 June 2016

Police in Samoa are calling for more information over the death of a transgender woman which has been the subject of media scrutiny this week.

The Samoa Police crest on a patrol bike in downtown Apia.

A file photo of the Samoa Police crest Photo: RNZI/Koroi Hawkins

There was an outcry after an explicit photo of her death was published by a local newspaper at the weekend.

The police media officer, Taupa'u Maotaoalii Kaioneta Kitiona, said there was evidence of criminal activity before the death of the 19-year-old, who has been named as Jeanine Tuivaiki of Vaiusu and Taufusi villages.

Several people had been questioned in relation to the death but no charges had been laid.

Bruises and cuts were found on the woman's face and body.

A post mortem was yet to determine the cause of death.