Embattled Sevens captain charged

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 03 June 2018, 12:00AM

Embattled Manu Samoa Sevens Captain, Alatasi Tupou, is scheduled to touch down in Samoa today, having been sent back to face the consequences of a drunken rage last weekend.

Already charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, Tupou returns as more details about what unfolded last week have emerged.

The Sunday Samoan understands the matter came to light when a woman lodged a complaint against Tupou for swearing at her while on the road on Saturday night.

She said the incident occurred at Matautu.

Tupou’s vehicle had apparently blocked the road. 

“Alatasi was in his car and he was arguing with his wife but they were blocking the road so we waited for some time then my daughter overtook his vehicle so we can go,” the woman said.

“When our car overtook his car, we heard him swearing and we thought he was talking to his wife because they were arguing."

“When we got to the Vaisigano Bridge we were shocked when he overtook our car and he swore at us again."

“He kept coming on to us and swearing, even when we got to the Police Station he swore again. Some Police officers heard him and that’s when they took him in.”

The woman filed a complaint then.

“I lodged a complaint and early on Sunday morning but Alatasi’s father called us and apologised to us and so I decided to withdraw the complaint,” she said. 

“I was shocked by his actions especially coming from someone who I had admired so much for representing our country.”

Police Spokesperson Auapaau Logoitino Filipo confirmed that Tupou has been charged.

“Alatasi is scheduled to appear in Court on 19 June,” said Auapa’au.

“He was charged last week Saturday night for driving while under the influence of alcohol and he was later released.”

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 03 June 2018, 12:00AM
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