Manu Vatuvei reveals himself as sportsman charged with importing methamphetamine

Former rugby league superstar Manu Vatuvei is facing a string of methamphetamine charges.

The New Zealand Warriors icon is charged with possessing methamphetamine for supply and importing the Class A drug.

He has denied the charges, which were laid in December 2019.

In an Instagram video, he said in 2019 he was charged with importation, possession and supply of methamphetamine.

He says all of these charges are accusations and he will be fighting his innocence for these charges.

Vatuvei has asked for privacy for his family while he goes through this “battle”.

Auckland barrister Bradley Moyer confirmed he was acting as a junior counsel for Vatuvei.

He confirmed the man in the video was his client and said Vatuvei’s comments were accurate.

Vatuvei was once the pride of New Zealand rugby league, playing 226 games for the Warriors, 29 tests for the Kiwis and two more for Mate Ma’a Tonga.

The winger could be jailed for life if convicted of the alleged offending.

Vatuvei’s bid for name suppression was rejected by Judge David McIlraith in 2020 and then by Justice Rebecca Edwards at the High Court in April.

Justice Edwards gave him until 5pm on May 4 to appeal her decision.

Vatuvei retired from professional rugby league due to injury in 2017, after a career spanning more than 13 years.

He went on to participate in several charity drives, including a Fight for Life boxing match.

He won Dancing With the Stars in 2019, then embarked on a new career in real estate.

[Source: Stuff.co.nz]