Tributes and condolences continue to pour in from Samoa and beyond almost a week after the tragic death of Detective Sergeant Peniamina Perite.

Detective Sergeant Perite who was killed in the line of duty while apprehending a suspect in a murder case has been honoured by police departments both locally and internationally.

Acting Commissioner of Police in Fiji, Juki Fong Chew, extended the Fiji Police Force's condolences to Samoa’s Commissioner of Police, Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo. 

In a heartfelt letter, Chew expressed that Detective Sergeant Perite’s bravery and sacrifice will be remembered as a source of inspiration for the Pacific Police family. 

"The entire Pacific Police family will reflect on Detective Sergeant Perite's act of bravery and legacy as an inspiration," Chew wrote. 

He further assured that the thoughts and prayers of Fiji Police officers are with the Samoa Police, Prisons, and Corrections Services, as well as Perite’s family.

The tributes also included heartfelt acknowledgments from Samoa’s Fire and Emergency Services Authority (S.F.E.S.A.), which, alongside Fire Rescue Victoria, honored Detective Sergeant Perite. 

The Authority praised his service and sacrifice, emphasising that his legacy will endure through the lives he impacted and the safety he ensured. 

"Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and for upholding your oath to protect your country," read the tribute. "Your legacy will live on through the lives you’ve touched and the safety you’ve provided."

In Samoa, a special memorial service was held at the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) hall last Thursday in Sogi to honour Detective Sergeant Perite’s life and service. 

Reverend Siaosi Salesulu officiated the ceremony, highlighting the detective's bravery and dedication. "Detective Sergeant Peniamina Perite was a paragon of dedication and valor," Reverend Salesulu said. "His steadfast service and sacrifice for our country stand as a beacon of inspiration for us all."

Samoa Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo also spoke at the ceremony, offering encouragement to the members of the Samoa Police, Prisons, and Corrections Services (S.P.P.C.S.). He urged his colleagues to honor Detective Sergeant Perite’s legacy through their actions. 

"Let us remember Detective Sergeant Peniamina Perite not just in words, but in our actions," Commissioner Filipo stated. "His memory should drive us to strive for excellence, integrity, and courage in our daily duties."

The service was attended by numerous SPPCS members, all gathered to pay their respects and reflect on the profound loss.