Chris-Mayne Paiere Mokoroa, the man arrested last week in Atiu for alleged cannabis cultivation, possession of cannabis, and possession of drug utensils, has been remanded into custody following a court appearance on Thursday.

Justice of the Peace Tangi Taoro heard submissions from the prosecution, which requested that Mokoroa be kept in custody to allow mental health professionals time to conduct a psychiatric assessment.

The court was advised that this assessment will take place on Monday, January 20.

The prosecution also informed the court that additional charges are likely to be brought against the defendant in the near future.

As a result, the case has been adjourned to February 20, 2025, at 11am. Mokoroa, who was arrested over a week ago, will remain in custody until then.

In an earlier statement, Police spokesperson Trevor Pitt confirmed the arrest and seizure of over 40 cannabis plants from the defendant’s property in Atiu.

The plants ranged from seedlings to mature plants, found during a follow-up investigation stemming from a separate disturbance complaint.

In light of this arrest, the Cook Islands Police continue to monitor drug activity in the outer islands, with the possibility of further investigations and charges.

Pitt earlier said the arrest was “a definite warning”.

“Cultivators may think they’re safe and out of reach but they can and will be caught.”

Police had received a complaint, which was primarily another matter regarding a disturbance. The cannabis was found as a result of that follow through by Atiu Police.

Cook Islands United Party leader, Teariki Heather, had earlier praised the police for their swift action in Atiu, calling it a significant deterrent to those involved in illegal drug activities.

Heather also noted that the arrest might point to a wider network of cannabis cultivation in both Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.

Meanwhile, a 34-year-old man is to appear in court on drug charges, following his arrest on Tuesday this week. 

According to Cook Islands Police, the narcotics detectives executed a search warrant on an Arorangi property and seized five mature cannabis plants. 

The charges arising relate to possession, cultivation and a utensil.