---

Chief of National Police Pius Chotailug Dies September 8, 2010

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): September 16, 2010 - On the evening of September 8, 2010, Pius Chotailug, Chief of the FSM National Police, passed away at Genesis Hospital in Pohnpei, having suffered from a stroke earlier that week.

Chotailug is a native of Yap State; he was born on October 17, 1959, on the outer island Paliau in Woleai Atoll. From 1963 to 1969, he attended Falalop, Woleai Elementary School, from 1970 to 1977, he attended Outer Island High School. In 1983, he pursued his education at the University of Guam majoring in Criminal Justice; and also at the Guam Community College majoring in Administration of Criminal Justice. He also attended Western Pacific Business College majoring in Computer Science.

Chotailug dedicated a life-long career to law enforcement in the FSM, with great success. In 1985, he began his career with the FSM National Government Department of Justice as Security officer; in 1986, he became Security Sergeant, and in 1989, he was promoted as investigator. Chotailug became Deputy Chief of National Police in 1992, and then served as Chief of National Police from 1999 until his passing.

The funeral service took place on September 13, 2010, at his residence in Ta, Sokehs Pah, in Pohnpei. FSM Congressman Urusemal, Chairman of the Committee on Education, nephew of the late Chotailug pronounced the eulogy. Urusemal expressed his sincere gratitude for all those in attendance, including President Mori, Speaker Figir, Chairman Sitan, Chairman Welly, Chairman Halbert, Secretary Robert, Chief Public Defender Sapelalut, Ambassador Cox, Ambassador Zhang Weidong, law enforcement officers from the National Government, employees from various government departments, and the many friends of late Pius Chotailug.

"Pius had great vision, was diplomatic and maintained great friendships everywhere," said Bill Stinnett, former Chief of Police of Chuuk.

After the service, the remains were taken to the burial site; Chotailug was buried alongside his late wife. A three gun salute was performed by Officers of the National Police.