December 11, 2025
The Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Service (SPPCS) last Friday 5 December 2025, farewelled Maria WETZELL from New Zealand Police, recognizing her significant contributions to the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (PTCCC) and the wider Pacific Transnational Crime Network (PTCN) over the past three years while deployed to Samoa.
Maria joined the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (PTCCC) during a period of high operational demand and was immediately immersed in complex regional priorities. Her ability to build strong, genuine relationships across the Pacific strengthened cooperation between law enforcement partners and enhanced the collective capability of the network. Her leadership, resilience, and professionalism ensured continuity and progress across multiple areas of work, even in the most demanding circumstances. Maria has remained a constant source of stability throughout organizational change in the security landscape of the Pacific. Maria also spearheaded New Zealand’s intelligence support during CHOGM 2024 ensuring a safe and secure CHOGM24.
Deputy Police Commissioner Papalii Monalisa Tiai-Keti attended the ceremony on behalf of the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Service commenting on Maria’s commitment to Samoa especially in regards to advancing the interest of women in the intelligence space and in the Pacific Security environment.
Maria’s impact extends beyond systems and processes. She leaves behind a stronger network, strengthened trust between agencies, and a community of colleagues across the Pacific who consider her part of their extended aiga.
Samoa Police and PTCN extends its deepest appreciation for her dedication, resilience, and service to Samoa and the Pacific region. She departs with the respect and affection of the entire network, and the assurance that she will always remain part of the PTCCC and PTCN family.
Fa’afetai tele lava Maria Wetzell
