Commissioner of Police, Fuiavailiili Egon Keil, has appealed to motorists to refrain from driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Speaking to the media yesterday, the Police Commissioner said the Police festive season operations officially started yesterday and will run through into the New Year. 

“The operation for keeping Samoa safe during these festive seasons has officially started today and it will end on the third of January.

“We have everyone who is a sworn member to be on duty, no one is taking any leaves but all the leaves have been stopped and no vacations.

“Everyone will remain here in serving their duties. This time of year, it brings about a lot of cheer, joy; it’s about friendship and families coming together,” he said. 

Fuiavailiili said there is always the risk of negativity during the festive period, so it was important for everyone to be responsible. 

“Please don’t drink and drive because especially in these times of the year, we have so many incidents.

“There was an incident that happened early morning which was quite unfortunate where it resulted with a life that was lost, and alcohol was involved.

“A male from around the Puipaa area lost his life, a little speculation going on right now that the individual was a security guard and he was under the influence of alcohol, there was a brawl and this individual lost his life,” he added.

Some people have been detained over the incident, adding Fuiavailiili, but an ongoing investigation will determine if there should be any arrests. 

“We will only conduct an arrest if we have probable cause and we intend on doing our jobs correctly, by covering every side that is required within the law.

“We have not done any arrests because we have not gathered enough evidence yet to conduct an arrest.

“Of course we work closely with Attorney General’s office in seeking legal advice in guiding us throughout our work,” he added.