The Director of the National Prosecution Office (N.P.O.), Mauga Precious Chang, was arrested and charged yesterday.

At her office at the Tofilau Eti Alesana Building, Police officers in uniform and members of the Tactical Operation Squad (T.O.S.) were stationed outside to execute the arrest warrant.

Superintendent Su’a Lemamea Tiumalu led the team with assistance from Sergeant Magalo Pule. As she was led away by Police officers, Mauga was reluctant to comment saying she would deal with the matter through her lawyer.  She did not say who her lawyer is.

Later, Police Commissioner, Fuiavailiili Lincoln Keil, confirmed the charges against Mauga. 

 “Police can confirm that they have charged the Director of the National Prosecution Office, Ms Mauga Precious Chang with negligent driving causing injury and dangerous driving,” he said in a statement. 

“The decision to charge is the result of a police investigation where the file was then reviewed by an independent prosecutor. 

“Police informed the Director in May shortly after the incident involving three damaged vehicles, that an investigation had commenced and charges were possible. 

“It was further confirmed to her a few weeks ago that charges were now likely.

“However the matter was then referred for an independent review of the evidence, which is now complete.”

The statement from the Police did not give a date for her Court appearance. 

The Samoa Observer however understands that she will appear on 13 September 2016.

The Police Commissioner’s statement added that the decision to charge Mauga followed an independent legal opinion sought by the Attorney General’s Office.

 “The independent prosecutor, Auckland based Barrister, Satiu Simativa Perese, was engaged on advice of the Attorney General to ensure independence, and he will work directly with Police.”

The Police Media Officer, Maotaoalii Kaioneta Kitiona told the Samoa Observer that Mauga is remanded at liberty until her Court appearance.