A Lower Hutt man has been sentenced to over 14 years in prison after police uncovered a vast methamphetamine stockpile in his bedroom, estimated to supply the Wellington region for more than two months.
Sunia Mano To’ofohe, 45, was sentenced on Thursday in the High Court at Wellington after being convicted on 14 charges, including possession and supply of methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, and cannabis, along with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
To’ofohe, a known Comanchero gang member, was apprehended in Levin in May 2023 during Operation Elusive, a police investigation into Wellington’s meth supply. A search of his Holden Commodore and Lower Hutt flat uncovered 11kg of methamphetamine, $547,000 in cash, a Ruger rifle, and other drugs.
Police believe To’ofohe had possessed up to 24.1kg of meth at one point. Despite his claims of addiction and that he was holding drugs for someone else, Justice Cheryl Gwyn found evidence pointed to a commercial operation, although not a sophisticated or gang-run one.
The judge acknowledged To’ofohe’s addiction and personal circumstances, including his role as a father, but ruled the drug operation far exceeded personal use. He was granted limited sentencing discounts, resulting in a final term of 14 years and 10 months in prison.
Justice Gwyn declined the Crown’s request for a minimum period of imprisonment, citing To’ofohe’s early-stage recovery and potential for rehabilitation.