19 Jul 2016

Samoa government stresses country is safe

4:18 pm on 19 July 2016

The Samoan government says the country is a peaceful and safe destination despite Australian media reports urging people to rethink travel to Samoa.

In its coverage of the rape of an Australian tourist by an escaped Samoan prisoner, the current affairs show 60 Minutes Australia warned people to think again about holidaying in Samoa.

It also highlighted security issues at Tafaigata Prison, from which the prisoner Lauiti Tualima escaped.

In a statement the Government said the tourist and her husband had been subjected to a harrowing experience and it was working with village councils to provide safe communities for the public and visitors.

It said it was also doing its best to ensure a new prison was constructed without delay.

Part of Tafaigata prison cells

Part of Tafaigata prison cells Photo: RNZI / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia

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