Jonah Lomu’s Brother Awaits Sentencing After Pleading Guilty

The 49-year-old entered the guilty plea alongside co-accused Silila Vaivai, 37, after both men originally faced charges relating to the importation and possession of methamphetamine.

In March, Lomu admitted possessing an unknown quantity of a controlled drug, while Vaivai pleaded guilty to importing an unknown amount of a controlled drug. The pair were remanded on bail and are expected to return to court later this year for sentencing.

Police first charged the pair in May 2024 after an investigation that ran between August and September 2023 uncovered their alleged involvement in drug-related offending.

John and his famous younger brother Jonah grew up in Manukau, where they played junior rugby league together before Jonah’s rise to global rugby superstardom.

In a 2019 interview with Niu FM, John spoke about the strong bond the brothers shared, revealing Jonah bought him his first car while he was still studying.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever wear the black jersey, Jonah Lomu transformed rugby union with his incredible combination of size, speed and power.

Between 1994 and 2002, the All Blacks winger played 63 Tests for New Zealand and scored 37 tries, becoming one of the sport’s most recognisable figures.

One of his most iconic moments came during the 1995 Rugby World Cup semi-final in South Africa, when he famously steamrolled England fullback Mike Catt on his way to scoring a legendary try still replayed today.

Jonah Lomu died in November 2015 at the age of 40 following long-term kidney complications.

The court is expected to set sentencing dates for John Lomu and Silila Vaivai later this year as the case continues to attract public attention.