NUKU’ALOFA, 12 FEBRUARY 2026 (TALANOAOTONGA) — Tonga Customs officers have intercepted multiple consignments containing undeclared firearms, ammunition, alcohol and fireworks during inspections between December 2025 and January 2026, authorities say.
The items, arriving from countries including New Zealand and the United States, were detected through x-ray scanning and physical examination as part of strengthened border controls.
Among the seizures were an air rifle, thousands of rounds of ammunition and significant quantities of fireworks linked to several individual consignees across Tongatapu and ‘Eua. Smaller amounts of alcohol and excess cigarette imports from China were also detained.
The weapons have been transferred to Tonga Police for investigation, while cigarettes, alcohol and fireworks remain under Customs control pending legal action and destruction.
The Ministry of Revenue and Customs says the interceptions form part of ongoing efforts to prevent illicit goods entering the country and to protect public safety.
Firearms and ammunition are tightly regulated in Tonga and require official licences for import, with breaches potentially leading to confiscation and criminal penalties.
Recent enforcement activity reflects a broader trend. In the September 2025 quarter, Customs officers seized more than 15,000 rounds of ammunition and two firearms from undeclared consignments, also detected through scanning and inspection procedures.
Authorities say investigations into the latest seizures are continuing in coordination with police, and further enforcement or prosecutions may follow.
Officials are urging the public and importers to comply fully with declaration requirements and permit rules when bringing restricted goods into Tonga…. PACNEWS