Police are conducting a new inquiry into the death of Francis ‘Iohasi Tu’amoheloa’s death.
The case was reopened after the deceased’s mother lodged an official complaint with the “Professional Standards Unit (PSU) stating their dissatisfaction with the result of the police investigation and the inquest”.
Tu’amoheloa died after getting into trouble in the water at Vaipua Harbour, Vava’u. Police would not say when did the sea fatality happen.
“PSU further investigated the complaint and concluded that the inquest was improperly handled, following which was the direction from Police Commissioner to reopen the case”, a Police statement said.
“Meanwhile, the investigation into the matter continues with no significant person of interest at this stage. It is likely to be completed by mid-March and further updates will be provided if anything significant occurs”.
Talanoa Lemoto investigation
On a separate note, Police said an inquest on the death of 35-year-old Talanoa Leakona Lemoto of Hala’ovave whose body was recovered from underwater on Monday, December 13, 2022 was conducted on Tuesday, January 10, 2023.
It concluded with three main findings:
1. The positive identification of the deceased as Talanoa Leakona Lemoto.
2. The cause of death was by accident after Mr. Lemoto’s vehicle fell into the water whilst he was intoxicated (Body sample has been sent to NZ for toxicology test).
3. There is no evidence indicating any foul play or criminal activities related to the death of Mr. Lemoto. The inquest panel was Chaired by Magistrate Salesi Mafi with independent members of the Ma’ufanga community including the pathologist, CEO Health, Dr. Siale ‘Akau’ola who conducted the autopsy, and the deceased’s wife and family. The autopsy reveals no signs of any internal or external injuries or bruises in the deceased’s body. The car was also preserved and forensically examined.
