In a joint press release issued on 27 November 2025, the Ministry of Customs and Revenue and the Samoa Police Service confirmed the interception of a shipment containing close to 100 grams of methamphetamine. The seizure prevented the drugs from entering the country and reaching local communities. Authorities estimate the street value of the methamphetamine at around WS$100,000.
Customs Border Officers discovered the drugs during a routine inspection of cargo arriving from American Samoa at the Matautu Wharf. Officers identified irregularities in one of the consignments and carried out a detailed examination, which led to the discovery of a can of milk powder containing the illicit substance. The concealment method reflects the continuing attempts by drug smugglers to move prohibited goods into Samoa through everyday items.
A group of four individuals connected to the shipment — a 38-year-old man from Lalovaea, two women from Samusu Aleipata and Fogatuli and Magiagi, and a Filipino woman — were referred to Police, Prison and Corrections Services for investigation. The male defendant has been charged with possession of narcotics (methamphetamine) and importation of prohibited goods. He is also jointly charged with one of the female defendants for possession of utensils. Authorities stated that both agencies are working together to ensure the accused are prosecuted under the full extent of the law.
The operation forms part of the broader cooperation between Samoa Customs and the Samoa Police Service under the “Say No to Illicit Drugs” campaign, which focuses on preventing the entry of methamphetamine and other illicit substances into Samoa. The agencies continue to use advanced inspection technology, intelligence-sharing, targeted profiling, and domestic and international cooperation to address transnational drug smuggling.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Customs and Revenue, Fonoti Talaitupu Li’a-Taefu, acknowledged the work of the officers involved and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to protecting Samoa from criminal activity linked to the drug trade.
Authorities said the coordinated efforts of Customs and Police aim to safeguard Samoa’s borders, reduce harm to families and communities, and ensure that individuals involved in trafficking prohibited drugs are held accountable.
