Police are intensifying their investigation into a serious assault and kidnapping allegation after a video of the alleged attack on a woman in her late 20s was circulated on social media. 

The woman claims she was assaulted by several members of her husband’s family, following an earlier argument at her home.

The incident first came to light on 5 November, when the victim reported being attacked on 31 October by five relatives of her husband. The assault reportedly followed a dispute the previous day, when her sister-in-law allegedly punched her and called other relatives, claiming she had been assaulted.

The victim told police that after the initial confrontation, a vehicle arrived at her home and one relative forced his way inside, slapping her. She escaped, but the group reportedly returned the next morning in a black minivan. Three women allegedly confronted her at the back of the kitchen, where she was slapped, punched, kicked, stomped on, beaten with a stick, and struck with an iron rod. 

One older female relative allegedly cut her hair with scissors, while others tied her to an iron pole. During the attack, one suspect reportedly threatened her, saying, “There is no family in Samoa that can challenge us. You will see when we get to kuā, we are going to mark you like an animal.”

The circulation of the video has provided police with further evidence. Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga confirmed the video shows the incident and was recorded by the family. He said the victim is safe under the care of the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG).

Leiataua emphasised that the suspects are already known to police and are relatives of a notorious criminal. 

“The video, together with witness statements and the victim’s account, provides sufficient evidence to file charges,” he said. “If the family does not cooperate, police will proceed with arrests.”

No arrests have been made yet as investigations continue, with authorities gathering further evidence and witness statements.