Apia Samoa- Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services (SPPCS) has officially launched its
Domestic and Family Violence Strategy co-existing with its Family Violence Policy and Procedure
which was launched in April.
The launch of the strategy is significant towards enhancing Samoa Police’s efforts in preventing
domestic violence ensuring a harmonious environment and the well-being of families.
According to Assistant Commissioner Papali’i Efo Moalele, the strategy plays a significant role in
accomplishing its policy objectives.
“The Domestic and Family Violence strategy is a plan of action designed to achieve the long term
aim of the Domestic Violence policy,” says Papali’i.
She went on to explain how domestic violence manifests itself and who is affected by it.
“Domestic violence manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual and psychological abuse of
violence and is a grave and violent crime that predominantly targets women and girls, which leads to
child abuse and endangering lives and welfare”, the Assistant Commissioner said.
With the creation of the strategy known advocate against violence and ex-police Inspector Tavu’i
Annie Laumea, says she’s thrilled SPPCS has launched the Domestic and Family Violence Strategy.
“It is exciting to see this valuable document launched by SPPCS,” says Tavu’i. The piece is an essential
tool for police work, especially in their response work.
Tavu’i further added, domestic violence has been increasing at an alarming rate and most victims
die as a result of it.
Minister for SPPCS, Honourable Faualo Harry Schuster conveyed the keynote address at the
ceremony highlighting police’s priorities for action.
“The strategy further highlights police priorities for action, which will target education and training,
policy and legal response, early intervention, diverse and emerging communities, people affected by
domestic and family violence, research and knowledge base, incident response communication and
information sharing and children at risk exposed to violence,” stated Faualo.

The launch event took place yesterday afternoon at the Le Lava Hotel and was attended by
diplomatic corps members, Minister for Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD)
Honourable Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio’o, representatives of key stakeholders, Director General for
the Ministry of Health (MOH) Aiono Alec Ekeroma and Australian Federal Police (AFP) representative
Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans.