Tonga Police have charged a 23-year-old man following the death of a 29-year-old Fonongahina resident whose body was found on Liku Road early on Sunday.

The accused, from Ha’ateiho, remains in custody and has been charged with reckless driving causing death and driving without a licence while investigations continue.

In a media release issued today, Police confirmed they were aware of a video circulating on social media showing the incident. Officers appealed to the public not to share the footage or speculate about the circumstances while inquiries remain ongoing.

Police extended their condolences to the victim’s family, noting the deceased would have celebrated his 30th birthday on Tuesday.

According to Police, anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact their nearest police station to assist investigators.

Additional details released by Police indicate officers responded after reports of a body on Liku Road in Fonongahina during the early hours of Sunday. A vehicle was also located at the scene. Authorities say the driver later surrendered to Police and was arrested. Preliminary inquiries suggest the vehicle struck the victim before the occupants left the scene.

Police have not released further information about the circumstances leading to the death and stressed that the investigation remains active. The charges laid at this stage may be reviewed as inquiries progress.

The case has drawn significant public attention following the circulation of the video online. Police reiterated that sharing graphic material can cause further distress to grieving families and urged the community to rely on verified information from official sources while the investigation continues.