The Samoa Police destroyed 360 illegal firearms and four kilograms of methamphetamine at their police headquarters in Apia on Tuesday morning. These were firearms retrieved from police raids and collected during the last gun amnesty.

Minister of Police and Correction Services, Faualo Harry Schuster, said the destruction of firearms, ammunition and illegal drugs is an occasion that showed the strength and resilience of national institutions.

He said it reflected the shared commitment as a nation to reject crime, violence and disorder.

"This is not merely a symbolic act, it is a clear and decisive statement that illegal firearms and narcotics have no place in our society, our home or our future," Faualo said.

Faualo encouraged everyone to speak up and report crimes involving illegal firearms or drugs to ensure a safer Samoa.

"I call on every citizen to play your part, report what you see, protect our young people, stand with law enforcement because the safety of our nation is not the job of one ministry or one agency, it is the responsibility of all of us," he added.

Faualo said this is a declaration of Samoa's unwavering commitment to public safety, justice and the rule of law.

"Every illegal firearm destroyed today represents a life potentially saved, every round of ammunition rendered unusable is a step toward a more secure society."

"Every gram of narcotics incinerated is a blow to the drug trade that undermines our families, corrupts our youth and threatens national security."

"Let this be a clear message to those who profit from violence and vice. There is no haven for you here. And to our citizens, let this be a message of hope, your government is working for a safer, healthier and more just society."

This ceremony also celebrated a new firearm shredder machine donated by the government of New Zealand through its partnership with the Ministry of Police.

The machine was tested with the destruction of a firearm on Tuesday.

Faualo acknowledged the support of the ministry's partners here and abroad and also to the local community for always assisting in times of operations and investigations.