Four women and two men were arrested and charged in connection with the kidnapping and assault of a woman in her late 20s, police have confirmed.

The group is aged between 25 and 60 years old. Five suspects were arrested on Thursday, and one was taken into custody on Friday.

Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga said the police were finalising charges of assault, kidnapping, causing grievous bodily injury, and being armed with a dangerous weapon.

All six suspects have been granted bail, despite police requesting that they be remanded in custody. The decision was made by the court registrar. 

Leiataua also acknowledged the cooperation of the village mayor and matai of the defendants’ village, who assisted officers in their apprehension.

The arrests come days after a video circulated on social media showing a woman being violently assaulted, prompting widespread concern and calls for swift action. The victim reported the incident to the Faleata Police Station on 3 November, alleging that she was attacked on 31 October by several members of her husband’s family following an earlier dispute.

She said she was confronted behind the kitchen, where she was slapped, punched, kicked, stomped on, tied to an iron pole, had her hair cut, and was beaten with a stick and an iron rod. One suspect allegedly threatened her, saying she would be “marked like an animal.”

Leiataua previously confirmed that the video of the attack was recorded by the family involved and provides key evidence alongside witness statements. The victim remains under the care of the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG).

All six accused are scheduled to appear before the Supreme Court on Monday, 24 November.