Local authorities have reached out to the public for information regarding the whereabouts of a 38-year-old man from Tonga, Nicky Funaki, who is currently the primary suspect in a series of cattle thefts on the island of Savai'i. 

Funaki, who resides in Salelologa, is believed to be connected to the theft and slaughter of cattle belonging to a Savai'i family last month.

The incident, which surfaced on social media last month, has left the affected families distraught. 

According to sources close to the family, the theft was discovered when they found only the heads of their slaughtered cows left behind at their cattle farm, an act that sparked both anger and sadness. 

The family promptly lodged a formal complaint with the police, setting off a broader investigation into the matter.

On Wednesday, police issued a statement on social media asking for public assistance in locating Funaki. In the official post, police described him as a resident of Salelologa with no immediate family ties to Samoa. "The suspect, originally from Tonga, resides with his partner and has no family connections in Samoa," the statement read.

The Transnational Crime Unit (T.C.U.) has also confirmed that Funaki remains within the country's borders. 

Authorities suspect that he may still be in the Savai'i area and have called on the community to help locate him. Furthermore, police urged anyone who may have seen Funaki to contact the nearest police station or reach out directly to law enforcement.

Police further reminded the public that harbouring a wanted individual is a criminal offence. They encouraged citizens to cooperate fully, highlighting the importance of community involvement in ensuring safety and upholding the law.

This call for assistance reflects an ongoing effort by local authorities to address issues related to cattle theft, a crime that significantly impacts local farmers and their livelihoods.