The Ministry of Police and Prisons received more than 400 calls for help from the public during the Christmas long weekend – which is an increase of 19 per cent from the previous year's festive season.

And out of the 453 calls received from the general public there were 35 arrests, according to the Acting Police Commissioner, Papalii Monalisa Keti.

Papalii noted that most of those arrested were for minor offences such as intentional damage, causing injury, burglary, negligent driving as well as reckless driving. 

And eight of those who were arrested were charged for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

While most of the Government offices are currently enjoying a two-week holiday, the Ministry of Police and Prisons continued to work during the festive season, monitoring and responding to reports of criminal activities. 

The Acting Commissioner said the Police Criminal Investigation Division was also looking into locating and retrieving stolen items during the holidays, mostly electronic equipment such as TV screens.

She said most of the complaints the Police received were connected to reports of burglary with most of the suspects reoffenders. 

The Deputy Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo also confirmed one death reported this week which the Police believe was self-inflicted in the village of Malie. 

In the lead-up to the new year's long-weekend, the Acting Commissioner extended her thanks to the general public and wished them good holiday. 

She reminded the public to drink responsibility, urging those celebrating with alcohol to catch a taxi home to ensure their safety.

Police are also asking the public to assist them in their work by staying safe for the remainder of the festive season. 

Earlier in the week, after the Christmas long weekend, a Police-operation led to the arrest of the Assistant Electoral Commissioner, Afualo Daryl Mapu and a female work colleague.

The pair, who were detained and are currently in custody, were held on the charges of possession of narcotics. 

The police operation netted four illegal pistols including a revolver, two rifles, $2900 cash, methamphetamine, utensils and several laptops. 

Police have yet to calculate the total value of items seized from the drug bust in Nuu-fou and are also yet to finalise the charges against the defendants.