Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is currently engaged in an in-depth investigation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding a drug-related incident involving a package that was processed through the local Post Office last week. 

This was confirmed by Acting Police Commissioner Falanaʻi Lavataʻi Taʻase Sagapolutele in response to Samoa News questions. He indicated that Homeland Security's involvement in this matter was prompted by a referral from one of the prosecutors, a development that took the local Police Department by surprise.

During routine inspections, customs agents found approximately one pound of marijuana concealed within a package that was purportedly filled with long rice noodles. As the agents were about to open the package for further inspection, the man there to claim it quickly said he needed to speak with a friend waiting outside, whom he identified as the package's true owner. After this brief encounter, the man quickly exited the facility with his friend.

In light of these developments, Acting Commissioner Sagapolutele confirmed that he has discussed with the Attorney General the rationale for referring this case to Homeland Security rather than handling it solely by the Police. Although he refrained from providing further comment, Assistant Attorney General Sara Charpentier told Talanei that, due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, they were unable to share specific details at this time. 

However, Charpentier explained that Public Law No. 38-24, enacted by the Fono, authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to designate special agents with a restricted scope of authority to make arrests, particularly for drug and human trafficking offenses. This legal framework allows for a more specialized approach to handling such serious crimes, which often require intricate investigative methods.

She further highlighted instances in which law enforcement interests converge, necessitating a collaborative approach. The Attorney General’s Office is presently working hand-in-hand with both the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Homeland Security to devise a comprehensive strategy for addressing a spectrum of crimes associated with drug trafficking and human trafficking.

“With drug and human trafficking crimes on the rise, and resources painfully thin, it is important to note that American Samoa law enforcement entities work together as a team to have the most impact across the territory for the people of American Samoa”, said Charpentier.