Police hit out at vicious rumours

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 11 June 2017, 12:00AM

The Police spokesperson, Su’a LeMamea Tiumalu, has cautioned members of the public against spreading vicious rumours and lies, saying they need to be sensitive about people’s feelings.

The caution was issued yesterday when the Sunday Samoan contacted him for a comment about reports that a New Zealand Samoan who disappeared from the seaside of the To Sua trench last month had been found.

“We have heard the same rumors last week and also this week,” Su’a said.

“I can tell you they are not true. I have contacted all our Police posts and they have no information about any such findings.” 

Su’a said whoever started such rumour, which ended up on a local radio station, should think twice about what they are doing.

 “Stop making up these stories to stir up rumors,” he said, adding that people should sensitive about the feelings of families who are affected. 

Su’a added that they have still not found Royal New Zealand Navy sailor, Kilino Joseph Lemafo’e Tua, who was last seen at To Sua.

Based at the Devonport Naval, the 24-year-old came to Samoa for a short vacation and visited the famous To Sua trench. 

According to a spokesperson for To Sua at the time, Mr. Tua’s belongings were found at a lava pool not far from the popular trench. 

She said they suspect he was there enjoying the view and the scenery when he got in trouble. 

Su’a told Samoa Observer yesterday on the phone that so far they have no new information regarding this missing person’s case. 

“These missing cases are valid and the file will be opened for a year,” said Su’a.

“After that the Police have to file a report with the Court for other proceedings. We don’t want to preempt that.

“All I can say is that for now, there are no new developments.”

Su’a assured that the Police will continue to follow any leads that could lead to the missing man.

“The file is still open. This case is not closed.”

Colleagues of Mr. Tua from the New Zealand Navy had flew to Samoa to help with the search.

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 11 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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