The police officer who was arrested and released at the expiration of the 48 hour-hold, in connection with sex allegations involving a 19-year old female student has been identified by Commissioner of Public Safety Save Liuato Tuitele as Officer Pepe Mann.

Responding to Samoa News queries late Tuesday evening, Save explained that “Officer Mann has been released after 48 hours detention pending further investigation.”

“I have yet to make a decision as to his status — I am still reviewing the options with my staff and hope to come to a decision soon,” he said. However, police officials have confirmed that Officer Mann will be assigned to work at the DPS Supply Room.

Another issue the Commissioner spoke about was continuation of the investigation into this matter by the CID.

Earlier this week, the complaining witness’s family contacted Samoa News pointing out that they will be asking the Commissioner to remove the case from CID, alleging the  CID Commander — Lavata’i Taase Sagapolutele — is a close friend of Officer Mann.

Save, in replying to Samoa News queries said that — as far as a request that the investigation not be handled by CID— “that request (if one was ever made) did not reach my desk yet.”

He further pointed out that he is “not aware of a special relationship Officer Mann has, or has had with the CID Commander… It has been the policy of this department, like most, if not all police departments in the country, that rape complaints are investigated by CID or a specialized unit created specifically for that reason.”

He said CID will continue to investigate the allegation and pursue all leads, and he will be monitoring the progress of the investigation and "make recommendation(s) as I see fit."

Save was also asked if a written police report was given to the AG’s office on this case, and he replied that prosecutors have seen statements.

“I believe the prosecutors have already seen the written statements the officers have gathered thus far. As for a written police report, the case is still being investigated and once the investigation is done, a police report will then be prepared with copy provided to the prosecutors,” he said, adding, “We may provide the prosecutors with an interim report if we feel it’s necessary.”

Samoa News also sent queries to Attorney General Talauega Eleasalo Ale on the status of this case, and if their office has received a report on this case.

“The case is under investigation. Once the investigation is complete we will review and determine appropriate next steps. At this stage, however, it is too early to comment,” the AG said.