A joint operation between the Tongan and New Zealand Police has uncovered a plot to import what has been described as substantial quantities of illicit drugs into New Zealand.
The Deputy Police Commander in Tonga, Taniela Faletau, says he cannot reveal anything more about the operation as it might jeopardise the current investigation.
The drugs plot follows the seizure of 83 pots of cannabis plants last week, in Tonga.
Mr Faletau explains where the plants were found.
"At a village called Nualei - it's about 7km to the east of Nuku'alofa. This was on Friday evening. We have arrested the occupant of the premises, a 38-year-old Tongan-national. He is being charged with possession and also cultivation of cannibis."
Taniela Faletau
