Former NRL player Jamil Hopoate, a member of one of Tonga’s best-known rugby league families, has reportedly been arrested following an alleged incident on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Australian media reported that the 31-year-old was arrested after allegedly crashing into a parked vehicle.

He was also reported to have returned a positive roadside breath test, although details of any charges have yet to be publicly confirmed.

Hopoate is the son of Tonga-born former Manly Sea Eagles star John Hopoate, who represented both Tonga and Australia during his playing career.

Jamil played 12 NRL matches for the Brisbane Broncos during the 2020 season.

He had earlier been involved in the junior systems at Parramatta and Manly before eventually breaking into first grade with Brisbane.

The Hopoate family has produced several prominent rugby league players, including Jamil’s brothers William and Lehi.

William represented Tonga at international level, including during the Mate Maʻa Tonga run to the 2017 Rugby League World Cup semi-finals.

Lehi currently plays for the Manly Sea Eagles and has also represented Tonga internationally.

Jamil’s playing career was repeatedly interrupted by off-field legal problems.

He was previously imprisoned over his involvement in an attempted cocaine importation and was released in 2024.