Crime Wave in Tonga

Brutal Assault and Outrage Near the Capital

Nukualofa, Feb. 23.

THE crime wave in formerly-peaceful Tonga, during recent months, has included robbery, manslaughter, rape, indecent assault, and gaol-breaking. The most recent case is the worst of all.

A gang of young men, believed to be Tongans, one night in February, attacked the plantation home of Mr. and Mrs. O.

Brahne (both Europeans) of Niumate plantation, a few miles from Nukualofa.

Mr. Brahne was struck down, beaten, bound and kicked, so that he sustained very serious injuries, including broken bones. Mrs. Brahne was seized, outraged and then bound.

The unfortunate couple remained in this condition until they were found next morning by their labour boys.

The police found, on the lawn, an iron safe that had contained money. It had been broken open, and the money stolen.

Mrs. Brahne’s car was smashed, appar ently with axes.

The police brought the Nukualofa photographer, Mr. A. Hettig, to the scene, and he secured several pictures of fin gerprints. They have been very active, and it is .understood that they are on the point of making an arrest.

This latest crime is likely to bring about some overdue reforms. There have been complaints, for a long time, that

malefactors are too lightly punished, and that far-reaching revision is needed in connection with gaol administration.