The Ministry of Customs and the Samoa Police have pledged stronger border controls and attempts to dismantle a wider network following the arrest of Taylor Victor Crichton, the driver of the Minister of Revenue, who has been charged with possession and importation of methamphetamine over the weekend.

Crichton, 36, of Vaitele-Uta and Fasito’o-Uta, was taken into custody after 1.4 kilograms of methamphetamine were discovered hidden inside a box of chicken on a cargo boat arriving from American Samoa. Police also seized $1,393 allegedly found in Crichton’s possession. He is scheduled to appear in court on 8 December.

Customs Chief Executive Officer, Fonoti Talaitupu Lia-Taefu, said the ministry is strengthening its presence at the border and will not hesitate to take action, even when the offender is one of their own.

“We are protecting the country,” Fonoti said. “If you work in the ministry or have family in the ministry, you cannot dodge the law. Don’t waste your time on this because the result is prison.”

Fonoti confirmed this was not the first concerning incident involving Crichton, though it is the first time he has been caught with methamphetamine. She said the case highlights the need for stricter cooperation with American Samoa, which currently lacks the legal powers required for more robust drug checks at the border.

She also noted that discussions are underway regarding pre-shipment inspections for cargo originating in the territory to prevent similar incidents. 

“We cannot do this job alone. We need to work together, ministries, offices, and the whole country,” Fonoti said, urging the public to report any links to drug activity.

Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga echoed the concerns, calling the incident “unacceptable” and confirming that investigations are now focused on identifying the importer and any associates involved in transporting the drugs.

He added that Crichton is part of a car crew, and police are calling on the community for information as they work to dismantle wider drug networks.

Both Fonoti and Leiataua stressed that stronger cooperation, increased border vigilance, and public support are essential to protecting Samoa from the growing impacts of illegal drugs, particularly along the busy travel routes between Samoa and American Samoa.