Besides moving to expand and strengthen the Vice & Narcotics Tactical Unit, Police Commissioner Le’i Sonny Thompson is doing the same for the Department of Public Safety’s motorcycle police unit, with at least two motorcycle cops very visible to the public in early morning hours or late afternoon on the highway.

The proposed expansion comes amid reports that there were some officers, as well as cadets who attending the 25th Police Academy, interested in joining this DPS unit.

In a June 2nd, “Recruitment Opportunity for Motorcycle Unit” memorandum, to all police officers, Le’i points out that this unit “represents a proud and historic tradition within our family of law enforcement and its dedicated service to the people of American Samoa.”

“The assigned solo operators embody and personifies strong moral and ethical conduct in the administration of their duties,” Le’i said. “Their insignia symbolizes a fraternity of proud and honorable officers of both past and present.”

Furthermore, “it is our professional obligation to ensure the standard is enforced through the selection of qualified offices to represent the motorcycle unit”.

According to the Police Commissioner, a concerted effort is undertaken to expand and strengthen the fleet of motorcycles within the police force.

Therefore, he says the memo serves as a notice to invite any and all sworn in officers who have expressed interest to compete for vacancies within the motorcycle unit. Interested offices should schedule to see the Police Commissioner to discuss the requisites necessary to join the unit no later than June 16th.

Le’i encouraged all leaders within the DPS ranks to ensure the dissemination of this opportunity to all officers within the police force.

The memorandum didn’t say as to how many motorcycle cops the Police Commissioner is looking to recruit in the future.

Three lawmakers contacted by Samoa News early this week for comments about the proposed expansion of the motorcycle unit, applauded Le’i’s latest improvement to the police force; with all three lawmakers agreeing that this is something that should be developed. However, the trio reserved further comments for when the Fono convenes next month, for a committee hearing regarding updates on DPS.

During testimony in the Fono early this year, Le’i told senators that when he took over the post of Police Commissioner, he was informed that there are only two certified motorcycle officers on the force, while another two have been assigned to the Territorial Correctional Facility.

Le’i said there was a need to strengthen and train the police force and this includes expanding the motorcycle police unit.