The surveillance cameras operated by the police in key areas of the Apia township have led the police to arrest two men who were seen selling drugs at the Savalalo fish market.

The surveillance work led to police conducting a raid on Saturday night.

Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo confirmed that the two men are now in custody awaiting their first court appearance next month.

“Two men were spotted by the CCTV cameras selling drugs in that area (fish market), and the police mobile duty team responded and searched the two individuals. Both were found in possession of drugs, namely methamphetamine, marijuana, and had utensils to take the drugs," he said. 

"They were immediately arrested and charged last night. They are now in custody awaiting court appearance on 9 June.” 

He said cameras were working and provided a tool for the police to prevent more crime and respond to situations such as the drug raid.

The surveillance network has 30 CCTV cameras, a monitoring room, and the Emergency Radio Network. This was part of an investment of around SAT$12 million (AUD$6.5 million) by the Australian government to assist Samoa over the next three years to fund improvements in infrastructure and technology.