Nuku’alofa curfew remains

TONGA – A month after Cyclone Gita hit Tonga, police there are continuing to enforce a curfew around the capital of Nuku‘alofa.

This week prime minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva announced an extension of a state of emergency until April 9.

Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said as part of the announcement police would continue to patrol the streets of the capital, making sure no one is out after 10pm or before 5am.

Vailea said while most areas have had power restored in Nuku‘alofa, there were a few streets which were still without electricity, which police would focus on.

He said there had been a number of recent violent crimes, including a murder, and fatal car accidents. The curfew is also helping limit alcohol consumption.

He said some bar owners have complained because they want to get their businesses back to normal but he said public safety was paramount.

Police will review the curfew over the weekend.