Deputy Police Commissioner Papalii Monalisa Tiai-Keti has confirmed that local artist, Robyn Akari, has been charged with one count of assault on Tuesday, after a complaint was lodged by Sammy Atoa, father of the 18-year-old victim, whom she has allegedly assaulted. 

She was released on bail and is set to appear in court on 6 August 2025  before the District Court.  

The incident is believed to have allegedly occurred on Friday night, at a nightclub, just a day before the Samoa Vibes concert, where Akari was originally scheduled to perform. According to Sammy Atoa, the father of the victim, his daughter was allegedly slapped and punched by the artist during a night out with her aunt, who had just arrived from Melbourne.

Atoa alleged the altercation began after Akari accused his daughter of stealing drinks and sitting at the wrong table during the outing. “She even admitted on social media that she assaulted her to teach her a lesson,” he said. 

He also claimed that a misunderstanding about his daughter touching Akari’s husband during a Siva Samoa performance may have escalated tensions.

Akari was reportedly removed from the Samoa Vibes line-up following the incident. While event organisers have not issued an official statement, attendees confirmed that the artist did not perform.

In response, Akari confirmed her removal from the concert and said, “Yes, and sued them to pay me for not going to the Samoa Vibes. I will get my lawyer.” She declined to comment further, citing the ongoing police investigation.