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Author: Raj Keresoma
Apia, Samoa – July 24, 2024 – Fasito’o-uta man Mua’au Pokati Tu’u faces two charges of murder, one charge of manslaughter and one charge of possessing a dangerous weapon and is due to appear in court on August 26, 2024.
The suspect was in police custody for the shooting death of a man in Nofoali village last Sunday night, and Detective Sergeant Peniamina Perite was shot dead on Monday as officers went to arrest the suspect.
The suspect, who had been on the run since Sunday evening, was arrested on Tuesday and taken directly to the Tupua Tamase Meole (TTM) Hospital for treatment of facial and head injuries allegedly inflicted by some villagers who helped the police to capture him.
Images of the defendant’s injuries were widely circulated on social media, with mixed reactions from the public.
The police chief said the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute that allegedly involved the defendant’s ex-wife and the man who was shot and killed Sunday night.
The suspect was already known to police as he had served time in prison for a number of crimes.
Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo said the accused may face other charges.
Members of the police force gathered outside their headquarters last night to pay tribute to the late Detective Sergeant Peniamina Perite.
Tribute to Sheriff Perritt
The Detective Sergeant’s death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and the public.
A banner in honor of the fallen officer was hung in front of the police headquarters in Apia, while colleagues and members of the public laid flowers in his memory. Some officers lit candles, laid flowers, held vigils, sang songs and shared their relationship with Sergeant Perritt the day after the shooting.
Sgt Perite’s family asked for his body to be released and buried but were told the court must decide whether an autopsy should be conducted.
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