Samoa Police Commissioner Auapa‘au Logoitino Filipo has confirmed that he has formally reapplied for the position of Police Commissioner. 

This announcement was made in a recent interview with the Samoa Observer. 

Commissioner Auapa‘au was appointed as Police Commissioner in July 2022, following the resignation of Fuiavailiili Egon Keil in August 2021. Before his appointment, Auapa‘au served as Deputy Commissioner and had more than 24 years of experience within the Samoa Police Service. He was among seven senior police officers who applied for the position, alongside two non-serving applicants.

The recruitment and selection process for the Police Commissioner position is overseen by the Public Service Commission (PSC), which evaluates applicants and makes recommendations. The PSC has previously faced scrutiny over delays in providing recommendations for senior government positions.

Commissioner Auapa‘au’s tenure has included overseeing security operations for national events, strengthening engagement with village councils, and introducing new policing initiatives, such as the use of electric bicycles to improve patrols in rural areas.

As of now, the decision regarding his reappointment is pending. Further updates will be provided once the Public Service Commission completes its assessment and announces its recommendation.