The father-in-law of a police officer shot in American Samoa says up to nine pellets are believed to have entered the man's body.
Vaiausia Yandall said five pellets have been removed but four are still lodged in Time Loia's body and special equipment will be needed to remove them.
Mr Yandall told KHJ News that Mr Loia ducked and tried to shield himself with his hands when he was shot in Lepuapua while on a routine patrol early yesterday morning.
It's believed a shot gun was used.
Mr Yandall, who is a member of the Leone Village council, says the pellets entered the officer's temple, shoulder, chest area and back and 40 year old Mr Loia is recovering well after surgery.
He believes the shooting was an attempt to scare police and stop them investigating a local drug ring.
