29 Oct 2009

Police in Samoa yet to receive complaints on sale of tsunami food

10:18 am on 29 October 2009

Samoa police say they haven't received any complaint relating to allegations that some tsunami food relief supplies such as rice are being sold by some villagers and people involved in the distribution.

The newly appointed Police Commissioner, Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo, says any allegations should be brought to the police.

Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, has dismissed recent media reports that relief supply has not reached some of those who need it most, as well as claims relief food is being sold.

Tuilaepa has accused media of misleading the public with unsubstantiated reports about the allegations.

However some local journalists claim those who have made the claims are reluctant to report them to police as they don't want to be identified for fear of being punished by their village elders and matais.