27 Nov 2007

Villagers have vacated Satapuala land - says an assistant Police Commissioner in Samoa

11:41 am on 27 November 2007

An assistant police commissioner in Samoa says villagers from Satapuala have vacated the part of Mulifanua Plantation they occupied.

Papali'i Li'o Masipa'u says there was noone left on the land after the village and Government met and negotiated a peaceful solution.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoli'ai Sa'ilele Malielegaoi and matai of Satapuala met on 15 November.

The Government issued a statement saying a compromise has been reached whereby Satapuala village has agreed to vacate government property they have been occupying.

Their land claims, along with those of other villages concerning hinterland bordering government land, are being examined.

Deliberations and consultations over the matter will continue."

The village and Government is to form a committee which is scheduled to meet on 20 December.