Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Public Safety has not yet made any official arrests in connection with a burglary incident that resulted in the theft of a government vehicle last month.

Deputy Police Commissioner Falana’ipupu Ta’ase Sagapolutele has confirmed that the investigation into the recent incident is still active and ongoing in a phone interview with Samoa News. 

He elaborated that two individuals were taken into custody for questioning after a vehicle belonging to the Department of Search and Rescue (DSR) was impounded. During the interrogation, these individuals disclosed information that indicates the potential involvement of several other suspects in this case.

The authorities are currently working diligently to explore these leads and gather further evidence to ensure that all parties responsible are held accountable. Sagapolutele emphasized the importance of thoroughness in the investigation to uphold justice and public safety.

As previously reported by Samoa News, the vehicle was taken to an auto repair shop at the Industrial Park for servicing. During the break-in, the assailants stole not only expensive equipment but also the F150, which was assigned to the Director of the DSR. 

The vehicle was reported missing on August 11, following the burglary that occurred over the preceding weekend. 

On Aug. 18, law enforcement officials discovered the stolen F-150 truck in the Fagaima area. Upon examination, it was determined that the original DSR1 license plate had been removed and substituted with a rental car license plate. The interior of the truck was found to be in a terrible state.

As part of the ongoing investigation, two individuals were taken into custody for questioning, as their potential knowledge may be pertinent to understanding the circumstances surrounding the theft of the vehicle.