Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga announced that no parade permits will be issued this Saturday by the police due to safety concerns. He urged the public to find alternative ways to support the national team.

"I can no longer issue permits because I must prioritise safety," he said.

"I decided on Saturday that it should not continue for two reasons: the safety of people on the road, including drivers and passengers, and to ensure that no laws are broken."

Leiataua explained that under the Police Act 1961, the Commissioner has the authority to issue permits for parades along the “main Beach Road. However, he emphasised that after closely monitoring recent events, he has decided to no longer grant permits for parades in the future due to safety issues.

This year, Leiataua approved two parade permits following requests from organisers. Before the parades, police met with organisers and provided specific guidelines to ensure safety for pedestrians, drivers, and passengers, as well as to ensure that no road laws would be violated.

However, Leiataua noted that after the first parade, the behaviour of participants raised concerns. He pointed out that, although he had approved the second parade, he had also warned organisers that the event would not be continued if safety measures were not followed.

“To be clear, after Saturday, it was evident that the laws were not being properly followed.”

Leiataua also stressed that the permit issued for Saturday’s parade was the only one approved, and there was no permit granted for Sunday’s activities.

Despite this, large numbers of cars filled the town area on Sunday during the game between Toa Samoa and Tonga. He explained that, halfway through the game, police officers went to the town area to manage the situation.

“We carried out our duties, and because of that, fewer incidents occurred,” he said

He further explained that there were two incidents during Sunday’s gatherings, one involving an injury in Faleasui and another in front of Apia Park. While no reports were made from the main town area, these incidents were still linked to the type of parade activity that took place over the weekend.

The Acting Commissioner clarified that if there were a larger area or wider road available, the police could block that area for a parade, but for now, the priority is the safety of the public. He urged the public to support the team safely.

"I advise our country and car owners to find another way to support our team," Leiataua said.