Former Samoa 7s International Arrested Over Falefa Shooting

2026-02-24 - 09:36

Police have arrested a former Samoa 7s international representative in connection with the shooting in Falefa last Friday night that has left a male in his 50s in critical condition at Motootua National Hospital. Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga confirmed the arrest to Samoa Global News, stating that investigations into the incident have been completed and the suspect has been arrested. “Ua uma ona fai le suesuega i le case i Falefa. U molia lē na masalomia i le manu’a ai o se isi taulealea e faaaoga ai le fana,” said Leiataua. A youth from the village who assisted the victim and rushed him to the hospital said the motive behind the incident remains unclear. “I am not sure what caused the incident... but the man that was shot found his way to a nearby neighbour’s home.. “Then the neighbour sent his young son running to my house for help..” “That is how I ended up driving the victim to Lufilufi Hospital,” he explained. The victim was transferred to Motootua National Hospital where he had to undergo life saving surgery. Medical staff from Motootua Hospital told SGN that one male in his 50s suffered a gunshot wound injuring his liver and bowel..” “He remains in the ICU recovering from life his saving surgery on Saturday..” Check out Barker’s dessert sauces at Farmer Joe’s. Available on Maua App and Samoa Market. The accused, Etuale Pitone, had played for the Samoa Rugby 7s team, featuring in the lineup for Samoa during the 2009 Men’s Sevens Series. He is considered a vetetan legend of local rugby and also plays rugby league for Marist St Joseph’s rugby club.