Alcohol involved in Moamoa crash

The Police have confirmed that a car crash that damaged a power pole at Moamoa last Saturday evening was caused by a motorist who was driving under the influence of alcohol. 

The collision between two vehicles later caused an interruption to the local electricity supply. 

Deputy Police Commissioner Papali’i Monalisa Tiai-Keti, in response to questions sent through email by the Samoa Observer, said Monday that there was a traffic collision at Moamoa with the suspect under the influence of alcohol.

She said the collision with another vehicle led to a power outage and was reported to the Police.

“[The] suspect was under the influence of alcohol and the impact of the collision affected an [Electric Power Corporation] electric post nearby which caused power outage in the area," Papali’i said. 

The Deputy Commissioner said that the Police received a report on the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning, at about 1.30am. 

A man involved in the collision has been charged and will appear in court on 9 February next year. 

Asked if there were any injuries from the traffic incident, she confirmed that the defendant had to be taken to hospital.

Papali’i cautioned members of the public who continue to drive while under the influence of alcohol, saying their “carelessness and stupidity” is putting lives at risk.

“We strongly advise members of the public who continue to drive whilst under the influence of alcohol that innocent lives may be at risk because of their carelessness and stupidity,” she added.

“If you are intending to drink then please do not drive. As we are heading into the festive season we urge Samoa to please not drink and drive. 

“Arrange for a sober driver if you are going out and drinking alcohol with friends. Working together for a safe Samoa.”

The crash occurred in front of the Pesa Pesa and Sela Pesa of Moamoa premises and disrupted the power supply in Moamoa and Sinamoga, while the Electric Power Corporation replaced the damaged power pole.