Pacific Islanders duped by immigration claim

Police want to question Fakanonoa Fonua, also known as Muli Fonua.

Police believe a man claiming to be an immigration consultant with personal contact with the Prime Minister may have duped more than the 50 Pacific Islanders they found when they raided a Hastings state house.

Police have launched a manhunt for Fakanonoa Fonua, 24, issuing his photograph in a bid to stop him fleeing overseas.

Police and immigration officials on Wednesday found more than 50 people queuing at the Kauri St property, where Mr Fonua had allegedly been offering residency services to overstayers and those on soon-to-expire visas.

Police say Mr Fonua, who is also known as Muli Fonua, claimed he could "fast-track" their applications for a $500 fee.

He had left the premises before officers arrived.

Detective Senior Sergeant Sam Aberahama said Mr Fonua had been running his service at the house since November 8. There was nothing to suggest he had operated elsewhere. Mr Fonua did not live at the house.

"He had spoken with the elderly couple that reside at the address, and they had given him permission to use a room so he could carry out his business," Mr Aberahama said.

He would not say how much money had been paid to Mr Fonua.

"We want him to come forward. He's got a lot of explaining to do - and he knows where he's at with us."

Fifty passports were seized during Wednesday's raid, although 20 have been returned to their owners. The Immigration Service has taken 30 passports for further inquiries.

Senior executive Mary Anne Thompson said the service was working closely with the families of those involved.

She said the operation was mounted after Pacific Island leaders alerted Immigration.

"I am concerned that so many people seem to have been fooled. However, I am pleased with the speed at which we put a stop to it and applaud the community in Hastings for alerting us so quickly."