20 Dec 2008

Samoa's PM to receive Commission of Inquiry report on smuggled weapons

10:39 am on 20 December 2008

Samoa's prime minister today will receive the findings of a Commission of Inquiry into the smuggling of firearms from American Samoa to Samoa onboard the police patrol boat, the MV Nafanua

It comes after the hearing of evidence was completed last week with the presentation of final submissions by lawyers and deliberations by members of the commission chaired by the Ombudsman and lawyer, Maiava Iulai Toma.

The commission of inquiry was appointed by the head of state to investigate the involvement of the Police Commissioner in the illegal importation of firearms aboard the patrol boat and whether his actions were in accordance with his duties.

The commission has also investigated the involvement of other government employees in the Ministry of Police and Prisons and crew members of the patrol boat as well as the Ministry of Revenue and Customs.

A senior government official says it's likely a special meeting of the cabinet will be called next week to discuss the findings of the commission before Christmas day.