The Deputy Police and Prisons Commissioner, Papali'i Monalisa Tiai – Keti, has issued a stern warning to students caught bullying and committing crimes.

“There is no future when students are involved in bullying and committing crime,” she said. “The stigma of being a convicted criminal will not help provide for a prosperous future for any young person.”

The warning comes after an inter-school brawl this week between students of Saint Joseph’s College and Leifiifi College.

Papali'i told the Samoa Observer that 33 students from Saint Joseph's College and three students from Leififi College were taken into the Police station and given a talking to.

None of them was arrested due to the Young Offenders Act but they were all given a formal warning.

They were reminded about the impact of their actions on their education, families, churches and villages.

They were also told to use their time wisely by investing it in school work and other positive things to develop their families.

The Samoa Police Service previously issued a warning following an assault case of a juvenile who was recorded assaulting a 17-year-old at Savalalo bus terminal.

The defendant was arrested and remanded in custody until the 16th of June 2020 for mention.

Police has advised the public that the use of social media is for good, positive, and appropriate practice.

Furthermore, the use of social media to instigate violence sheds negativity on our Christian community and Samoan customs and values.

The arrest of this young man should be a deterrent for those who are contemplating to inappropriately use social media to commit a crime, harass, or intimidate others. 

There is no future in being incarcerated and breaking the law warns Police.