From Samoa, the suspended Assistant Electoral Commissioner, Afualo Daryl Mapu, has been found guilty of possession of narcotics and an unlawful firearm.
Justice Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala Warren found that Afualo’s evidence was not credible and she believed he and his key witness, Pelepesite Faavae, had collaborated on the case while they were in custody.
Co-defendant and fellow work associate Marie Fanueli was not guilty of all charges against her.
Both defendants faced six charges of possession of narcotics, namely 5 clear sealed plastic bags containing methamphetamine weighing 1.6 grams, and possession of utensils namely glass pipes.
They were also charged with possession of an unlawful weapon, illegal firearms, and unlawful ammunitions.
The charges stemmed from a police raid at Afualo’s home on December 28th of last year, where police conducted a search for firearms.
Justice Tafaoimalo concluded that she was satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Afualo was in possession of the narcotics, firearms and ammunitions, being the subject of the six charges.
The key defense witness claimed that the drugs and firearms belonged to him and not the defendant, a testimony that was —which the court said— not credible.
Afualo will be sentenced on 14 October and remains on bail until his sentencing.
Lawyer Magele Leone Sua-Mailo represented Afualo, while Aumua Ming Leung Wai acted for Ms. Fanueli.
Photo: Samoa Global News
