Geoff Turner has officially taken office as Tonga’s new Police Commissioner, marking yet another important leadership transition.
The swearing-in ceremony occurred Monday at Tonga Police Headquarters in Nuku’alofa.
Chief Magistrate Loupua Pahulu-Kuli administered the oath, with Deputy Commissioners and the Chief Legal Officer in attendance.
Commissioner Turner, an Australian national, brings extensive experience from his tenure with the Queensland Police Service and the Australian Federal Police. His appointment follows the conclusion of Shane McLennan’s term, who served as the first Australian in the role since 2022.
The Tonga Police Force expressed optimism about Turner’s leadership, stating, “Welcome Commissioner of Police Geoff Turner to Tonga Police and we wish you the best of days ahead as you lead Tonga Police into a new chapter of service and leadership.”
Turner’s appointment comes at a time when the force is focusing on enhancing public trust and addressing challenges such as organised crime. Recent initiatives, including the 2025 Tonga Police Women’s Advisory Network Conference, have emphasised leadership development and integrity within the force.
As Commissioner, Turner is expected to continue efforts to strengthen community relations and uphold the rule of law across the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, Australian Shane McLennan has concluded his role as Tonga’s Police Commissioner, marking the end of a distinguished 47-year policing career.
A farewell parade was held at the Tonga Police College in Longolongo last Friday, attended by Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, and senior police officers. McLennan, 62, bid an emotional farewell to his colleagues, whom he referred to as family.
The Australian High Commission in Tonga praised McLennan’s leadership, stating: “Today we were honoured to celebrate your 47 years in policing and the end of your tenure as Tonga’s Police Commissioner.” They highlighted his contributions to safer communities across Tonga, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste.
The New Zealand High Commission acknowledged his efforts in advancing gender equality within the force, noting: “Under his leadership, we’ve seen more women stepping into senior leadership roles and more female than male police recruits.”
Appointed in May 2022, McLennan was the first Australian to serve as Tonga’s Police Commissioner, following three New Zealanders in the role. His tenure focused on modernising the force, enhancing cybercrime capabilities, and fostering regional cooperation.
McLennan’s departure leaves a legacy of a more inclusive and capable Tonga Police, poised to continue its mission of ensuring community safety.
