Customs officers at Apia Wharf intercepted two Samoan men aged 25 and 42, seizing suspected marijuana and an undeclared firearm.[1] The separate discoveries were made in the early hours of Saturday 7 November 2026 during routine passenger screening after the arrival of the MV Lady Samoa IV from American Samoa.[1] According to a Ministry of Customs statement, officers first found suspected marijuana concealed in the pocket of the 25-year-old passenger.[1] Shortly afterwards, a firearm was found hidden inside the luggage of the separate 42-year-old passenger.[1]
The 25-year-old was charged with importing prohibited goods, false declaration and possession of narcotics under the Customs Act 2014 and the Narcotics Act 1967.[1] The 42-year-old was charged with importing a firearm without the required permit and making a false declaration under the Customs Act 2014 and the Arms Ordinance 1960.[1] Both men were handed over to the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services for further investigation and legal proceedings.[1]
Ministry of Customs chief executive Mulipola Lemalu Maletino Teofilo commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism in protecting Samoa’s borders.[1] The Ministry said it remained committed to strengthening border security and working with police and other agencies against imports of illicit drugs, firearms and other prohibited goods.[1]
