Samoa Airways has dismissed allegations that a coffin was used to transport drugs from American Samoa bound for Apia describing the claims as false.
Samoa Observer reports the national carrier singled out an individual named Mau Hunt who made the allegations on Facebook that he was informed by a reliable source regarding reports of a coffin that transported drugs to the island.
In a statement the airline said it has referred the matter to the police saying the severity of the false claims harms its reputation and erodes the trust the public has in the professionalism and dedication of the staff.
“These claims are entirely unfounded and we would like to clarify the situation for the public and our valued customers,” said the airline.
“The safety and security of our passengers and cargo is a top priority, and we take any attempt to undermine the integrity of our operations seriously.”
All coffins transported by Samoa Airways are accompanied by family members or authorized representatives, and the entire process is fully documented and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.
Hunt also claimed that 15 staff from Samoa Airways tested positive for illicit drugs and alcohol and all pilots had flu.
Samoa Airways last week confirmed that only 10 staff were tested, three were positive for illicit drugs and have been stood down, tests on a pilot came out positive for prescription drugs (sleeping pills) and six others had alcohol in their system.
