21 Oct 2008

Samoa inquiry into alleged smuggling of firearms finds insufficient evidence

12:33 pm on 21 October 2008

Samoa's special investigation into the alleged smuggling of firearms from American Samoa has found there is insufficient evidence to justify criminal charges against Police or Customs officials.

The findings of the special investigation were heard by a Commission of Inquiry investigating claims the Police Commissioner, Papalii Lorenese Neru had allegedly received the guns.

It also inquired into the alleged involvement of the crew of the MV Nafanua police patrol boat and the Customs office.

The special investigation team had been unable to interview a former American Samoa police captain, Papalii Marion Fitisemanu, because he is facing related charges.

Meanwhile the Commission of Inquiry reports the guns retrieved include two Mossberg shotguns, one Winchester shotgun, and a Ruger pistol.