Despite safety concerns raised in parliament about stopping the Toa Samoa parades, Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga says there were no arrests or deaths during the celebration.

He said people were issued with warnings.

“There were no reports of any deaths from the parade,” Leiataua said in an interview with the Samoa Observer.

“There were also no arrests made, but police issued warnings to individuals who behaved inappropriately in public areas”.

Minister of Finance, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo, had told parliament on Tuesday that the parades have to stop.

Mulipola said she had spoken with Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua to stop car events due to growing safety concerns following the weekend’s parades.

“I’ve spoken to the acting police commissioner to stop these car events if it means it will give people the opportunity to cause harm not only to themselves but to others. It has been noted that ice (methamphetamine) was a contributing factor,” Mulipola  stated

Mulipola also said she was shocked to see many cars and children around the town area on Sunday after Samoa’s 34–6 victory over Tonga, describing the scenes as chaotic with large crowds and vehicle convoys celebrating the win. She said the events created extra work for the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) and the National Hospital, with one incident leading to a person being taken to the hospital. Mulipola questioned what example such activities set for future generations and urged Parliament and the public to consider how these events affect community safety and the nation’s image.

Acting Director General for the Ministry of Health, Tagaloa Dr Robert Thomsen, said he could not confirm any information about an incident from the parades where someone was reportedly injured and has passed away. “Just send the information and I’ll check,” he said. “I cannot confirm anything with you at the moment. Just send it by email, and I’ll ask the people who were on duty if there was a case like that.” Questions were then sent through email, and a response and confirmation are still pending.