Vailoa suspect, a deportee: Commissioner

By Talaia Mika 06 May 2024, 1:00PM

The Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo has confirmed that the 37-year-old suspect from Vaimoso, Toese Tu'uauga was deported from abroad after being convicted of a crime.

He said this makes it more reasons for the police to boost their search for him. He is the suspect in the gun discharge incident that happened in Vailoa.

In an interview with this newspaper on Saturday, Auapaau said their latest investigations identified and confirmed his deportation.

"Not only he's a suspect but we have also confirmed that he's a deportee," he said.

He added that police are continuing their investigations as he was yet to be found and urged the public for their assistance as he is considered armed and dangerous.

Last week, the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services S.P.P.C.S. called for public assistance to locate Mr. Tu'uauga as he is involved in a recent firearm discharge incident in Vailoa. 

Also known as Ese, the 37-year-old is suspected to be linked to two other police cases and authorities issued a public notice emphasising the seriousness of the situation. 

Auapaau in a previous interview confirmed progress in identifying the perpetrator and urged members of the public with any information on the suspect's whereabouts to promptly contact law enforcement.

As reported earlier, an eyewitness described the shooting incident at Vailoa, occurring during a road rage altercation, as resembling a scene from a movie.

Although no injuries were reported, concerns arise as the incident bears similarities to a recent shooting in Sinamoga, where two individuals sustained gunshot wounds. 

One witness, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, recounted the alleged shooter driving a black SUV. 

The confrontation unfolded at the junction of Vailoa Road and the main Vaitele Road, near the residences of the Vailoa mayor and a church minister.

While the victim escaped physical harm, they reported the incident to police, who advised gathering additional eyewitnesses before initiating investigations. 

There have been suggestions that the suspect could also be involved in the Sinamoga shooting, the police are yet to confirm this. 


By Talaia Mika 06 May 2024, 1:00PM
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