Magistrate: Attack on Police was 'Cowardice’
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN Solomon Star, Honiara
A 14-year-old juvenile has been sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for damaging a police vehicle conducting patrol duties on New Year’s Day in West Honiara.
However, the defendant identified as ‘MP’ was released at the rising of the court because he had already spent around four months in custody whilst on remand.
He was convicted for one count of Malicious Damage following the incident on 1 January 2026.
In delivering the sentence, Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison strongly condemned the defendant’s actions.
“The police needs immense support from the community and all stakeholders in order to execute their statutory and constitutional duties of protecting all of us,” Magistrate Hollison said.
He added that the action of the defendant’s is cowardice and must be condemned with a custodial sentence irrespective of the fact that he is a juvenile pursuant to section 16(j) of the Juvenile Offenders Act [Cap 14].
He said the safety and lives of police officers were placed at risk during the incident and such conduct must be condemned.
The defendant had pleaded guilty early last week.
His co-defendant, another juvenile identified as HG, remains at large and is subject to a warrant of arrest.
The court heard that MP was 14 years old at the time of the offending.
The complainants were four officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF)
The incident occurred at about 1am on 1 January 2026, when police officers were conducting normal patrol operations in west Honiara using three police vehicles.
The patrol was planned to travel from Tasahe A through Tasahe B and towards White River.
Upon reaching the junction of Tasahe A and Kongulai Road, the police convoy was forced to stop by a roadblock, and stones were thrown at the vehicles from a dark area beside the road. Police called for reinforcements before continuing.
However, while travelling along Kongulai Road, a stone struck the rear glass of police vehicle G-4954.
As officers attempted to retreat towards the Tasahe Green Tank area, more stones were thrown at the vehicle.
The court heard that MP and his co-defendant were identified as the perpetrators.
MP instructed the other juvenile to shoot the police vehicle, resulting in the rear glass being smashed and disrupting police operations in west Honiara.
In considering sentence, Magistrate Hollison said imprisonment should normally be the last resort when dealing with juvenile offenders under the Juvenile Offenders Act [Cap 14].
However, he found that the seriousness of the offence, the danger faced by police officers, and the disruption of police operations justified an immediate custodial sentence.
The court adopted a starting point of 12 months’ imprisonment and then added two months after considering aggravating features of the offence, bringing the sentence to 14 months.
The sentence was then reduced by eight months after the court considered mitigating factors, including the defendant’s early guilty plea, remorse, first-time offender status, personal circumstances, and the circumstances surrounding the offending.
The final sentence imposed was six months’ imprisonment. The court was informed that MP was first remanded on 10 January 2026 and released on bail on 24 February 2026.
He was later remanded again on 27 April 2026 after intentionally breaching his bail conditions and remained in custody until sentencing.
Taking into account the approximately four months already spent in custody and remission under the Correctional Services Act 2007, Magistrate Hollison found that MP had effectively served his sentence.
The court ordered that he be released at the rising of the court. The Magistrate also directed police to execute the outstanding warrant of arrest for MP’s co-defendant, whose matter remains pending before the court.
James Tetea of Public Solicitor’s Office represented MP while Public Prosecutor Gabriel Maefiri appeared for the Crown.
///Ends///
File photo of police vehicle being stoned.
Search Ends in Tragedy as Diver Found Dead
By GEHAZI SEKO Solomon Star, Choiseul
A search and rescue operation near Supizae Island, Choiseul province, ended in tragedy Saturday afternoon after a man who went diving on a nearby reef was found dead.
The deceased, who was believed to be from Western province, was out diving with his wife when the incident occurred at around 2:00pm.
Reports indicate that the man submerged beneath the water while diving on the reef but failed to return to the surface, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation involving nearby individuals and Taro police.
The search operation concluded at around 5pm after his body was located by a passing boat in waters near Butubuturu Island.
The occupants of the boat immediately alerted Taro police officers, who responded to the report and attended the scene.
A medical doctor who examined the deceased said preliminary findings indicated that the man had drowned.
The tragic incident has left the Supizae community shocked and saddened, with residents extending their condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.
//Ends//
Photo caption: Police officers who attended the scene where the body of the deceased was found
BY JOSES SAREN
Under the shade of a large rain tree, in the strip of land between Kon Street and the National Archives compound where a stream flows through, a man sits with a hand-rolled cigarette between his fingers. Silver rings crowd his knuckles, dark bangles stack up his wrist, and grey dreadlocks fall past a beard streaked white with age.
His name is Jack. He says he is from East Guadalcanal. What he keeps returning to, unprompted, is a number: 27 years living on the street.
Island Sun cannot verify that figure, or much of Jack’s account of how he came to be here. His answers shift, and at times his train of thought is difficult to follow. But the number has come up more than once, in the same words — a fixed point in an otherwise uncertain story.
A life on the compound wall
Jack’s shelter is built from tarpaulin, cardboard and salvaged wire mesh, set in the narrow strip of land between Kon Street and the brick perimeter wall of the National Archives, where a stream runs through. It is in that stream that Jack washes. For drinking water, he relies on the Archives compound itself: he passes his bottles through to the security guards on duty, who fill them from a tap inside and hand them back.
It is survival built into the seams of the city — a stream for bathing, a government wall at his back, and the goodwill of the guards next door for something as basic as clean water.
For food, Jack says he relies on what he can find in the rubbish bins at the Central Market.
Small kindnesses, unpredictable income
Jack has no fixed income. He says people passing by sometimes stop and give him money — on the day Island Sun visited, one passer-by left him SBD $5. He also says he sometimes goes to stand outside a bank in town, where people have given him $10, $20, even $50 at a time. There is no pattern to it, no regular support — just whatever a stranger decides to hand over on a given day.
A question no one has answered
Spending time with him, it becomes clear Jack’s thinking does not always hold together. He repeats himself. He loses the thread of what he is saying. Whether that is the toll of decades on the street, an underlying condition, or something else entirely is not for this reporter — or anyone without the relevant training — to say. But it raises a question bigger than Jack alone: what happens to people living rough in Honiara whose grip on their own story is no longer steady, and who has any responsibility to check on them?
A city growing around him
Jack’s situation sits uneasily next to the government’s own language about urban growth. Solomon Islands’ Minister of Lands and Housing told the United Nations in July that rapid urban growth is putting pressure on housing, roads and water supplies in Honiara and the provincial centres. Jack is what that pressure looks like at street level — not a line in a ministerial address, but a man living against a government wall, washing in the stream below it, and passing his water bottles through to whoever is on duty that day.
Whether Honiara owes him anything more than the coins passers-by leave behind is a question the city has not yet answered.
Photo credit: Joses Saren
For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
The Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA Core) has officially launched its first-ever national data system, marking a significant milestone in strengthening mine action efforts in Solomon Islands.
The new system is expected to enhance the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services' ability—particularly through the Explosive Ordnance Department—to collect, manage and analyse information relating to unexploded ordnance.
The initiative is aimed at improving data management, supporting informed decision-making, and strengthening public safety through more effective mine action operations.
Watch Tavuli News_Current Affairs Program:https://youtu.be/xX7RX7KoE8A
Navigating Deposits at Vegasnow: A Guide for Australian Players For Australian online gaming enthusiasts, the ease and security of funding their accounts are paramount to a stellar casino experience. Vegasnow emerges as a prominent platform, offering a versatile suite of deposit options tailored to the modern Aussie player. Understanding these methods is the first step [...]
The post Vegasnow Casino Deposit Methods For Australian Players appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
RSIPF OFFICERS PROTECT TUVALU COMMUNITIES | Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) explosive experts are supporting a regional mission in Tuvalu to help protect communities from unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind from World War Two.
Read More Here: https://sundayisles.islesmedia.net/rsipf-officers-support-.../
Personnel from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Department are helping make Tuvalu safer through their contribution to Operation RENDER SAFE, supporting efforts to identify, document and assess the threat posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Nanumea Lagoon.
RSIPF EOD operators Sergeant Patterson Filiga and Constable Barnabas Talo recently visited the Nanumea community and met with the Tuvalu Police Service as part of ongoing reconnaissance activities focused on locating and documenting UXO remaining from the Second World War.
Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department, Tuvalu Police Service and Royal Australian Navy personnel pose for a photo following unexploded ordnance awareness training in Nanumea, Tuvalu, as part of Operation Render Safe.
As a result of World War Two, numerous UXO remain within the lagoon and surrounding areas. These explosive remnants of war continue to pose a potential threat to local communities, fishers and visitors.
Working alongside their Australian Defence Force (ADF) colleagues, Sergeant Filiga and Constable Talo supported reconnaissance activities to identify and record the location of UXO, contributing specialist advice to determine the nature of hazards and inform planning for future disposal.
In addition to their technical EOD responsibilities, the officers engaged with members of the Nanumea community to raise awareness of the dangers posed by UXO and provide practical guidance on how to recognise potential hazards and respond safely if suspicious items are discovered.
The community engagement activities complemented the broader mission by helping ensure local residents understand the risks associated with explosive remnants of war and the importance of reporting discoveries to authorities.
Australian Army soldier Sergeant Ryan Roach from 20th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron speaks with Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department Sergeant Patterson Filiga during a survey of Nanumea Lagoon shoreline as part of Operation Render Safe.
(L-R) Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department personnel, Police Constable Barnabas Talo, Sergeant Patterson Filiga, Commander Australian Contingent Operation Render Safe, Royal Australian Navy Officer Commander Nicholas Lee, RAN and Australian Army Sergeant Ryan Roach in a Zodiac watercraft during diving operations in Nanumea Lagoon, Tuvalu, during Operation Render Safe.
Australian Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Captain Emma Griffiths said the contribution of RSIPF personnel had been vital to the success of the operation.
“The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force brings extensive experience and expertise in dealing with UXO from World War Two, making them an invaluable partner in Operation RENDER SAFE,” CAPT Griffiths said.
“Sergeant Filiga and Constable Talo have played an important role in the mission, demonstrating the Solomon Islands’ status as a regional leader in this space.
“They have also demonstrated exceptional skill in engaging with the local community, building awareness of UXO risks and promoting safe behaviours when suspicious items are encountered.”
Operation RENDER SAFE is the ADF-led multinational commitment to removing the danger posed by World War II-era explosive remnants of war (ERW) in Pacific countries.
A total of twenty-four officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) were promoted to the rank of inspector on 23 July 2025 at Rove Police Headquarters in Honiara.
Four female officers were among those twenty-four officers promoted to the rank of inspector. The promotion is for the middle management level of the RSIPF organisation here in Honiara and the provinces.
Some of the female officers promoted to the rank of inspector posed for a photo after the promotion ceremony.
The promotion process has been thorough and transparent, ensuring that each candidate was evaluated fairly based on merit, experience, and their contributions to the RSIPF organisation.
Inspector Marion Ava Tuhenua, operation manager, Central Province, received her letter of promotion from the acting commissioner of the RSIPF, Mr James Aitorea.
Those who promoted officially endorsed following careful recommendations and approval made by our distinguished panel, who conducted consultations with the Ministry of Public Service to ensure adherence to the highest standards of professionalism and governance.
Acting Commissioner of RSIPF Mr James Aitorea, in his brief remarks during the promotion ceremony, said this promotion is not a privilege, but it is a great duty you must have, dedicated to you by the nation to manage and lead officers under your supervision according to the standing orders of the RSIPF organisation and the expectations of the people of this country.
Centre Inspector Mark Arimana posed for a photo after his promotion.
Commissioner Aitorea said this promotion is a great obligation that you must carry, which is entrusted to you from your performances during your work in the RSIPF organisation. It is not something that you will enjoy as a privilege.
Mr Aitorea said you are promoted because you can lead, manage and strengthen this RSIPF organisation. So, I ask you to stand by the standing orders of this organisation and serve your people with integrity and honesty.
A maritime officer receives his letter of promotion from RSIPF Commissioner Mr James Aitorea during the promotion ceremony.
The representative spokesperson of the newly promoted officers, Inspector Oliver Buira, during the promotion ceremony, said it is our duty when we are called anywhere at any time; we take those responsibilities.
Newly promoted Inspector Buira said the responsibilities vested in us are not easy, but we have to unite so that we can carry on our duties effectively. So, on behalf of the newly promoted officers, we thank you for entrusting us to carry out our duties.
Inspector Brian TAMOL I – Police Maritime – received his letter of promotion from the acting commissioner of the RSIPF. Mr James Aitorea
Inspector Harry Brown, FITITEI coordinator, Traffic Centre, received his letter of promotion from the acting commissioner of the RSIPF Mr James Aitorea
List of RSIPF officers promoted to the rank of inspector:
Inspector Clera QILAPALUSU-Provincial Coordinator
Inspector Marion Ava Tuhenua- Operation Manager, Central Province
Inspector Timothy TEMAPI-Coordinator-Western Province
Inspector Kevin KUATA- Operation Manager, Makira Province
Inspector Duddley SURUAU- Chief Engineer, Maritime
Inspector Lawrence ISA- Choiseul Province
Inspector Harry Brown FITITEI- Coordinator-Traffic Centre
Inspector Mark ARIMANA-Coordinator -RSIPF FIRE Service
Inspector Desmond F RAVE- Supervisor -RSIPF Media
Inspector Brian TAMOLI- Police Maritime
Inspector Joshua PUTE-Coordinator Training
Inspector Zachariah Salopuka- Coordinator Honiara City
Inspector Leonard ROKOTO- Western Province
Inspector Casper Junior NIUI- Executive Officer (XO) Second Captain -Maritime
Inspector Jefferson Tony Volaka- Interpol -Officer In-Charge
Inspector Tony To’oga- Officer In-Charge Malu’u Police Station
Inspector Ellen Kinita- Deputy Director -Logistics
Inspector Geoffrey Angi-Coordinator, Malaita Province
Inspector Oliver BUIRA- National Criminal Investigation Department (NCID)
Inspector Susan MALA- Staff Officer, Deputy Commissioner National Security and Operation Support
Inspector Brian KAURA- Officer-In charge- Workshop
Inspector Audrey SUHATA- Makira Province
Inspector Robin Mepirke- Temotu Province
Inspector Samantha KIKONI- Shift Supervisor
BY CHARLES STENNETT
China says it is ready to deepen cooperation with the Solomon Islands while calling on all countries engaging with Pacific Island nations to respect their independence and ensure cooperation is not directed at any third party.
A report from Pacnews said, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks after being asked about Solomon Islands’’ decision to sign a ship rider agreement with the United States that will allow the U.S Coast Guard to patrol the country’s waters with Solomon Islands police officers on board.
“China and the Solomon Islands are comprehensive strategic partners featuring mutual respect and common development for a new era.
“We stand ready to work with the new government of the Solomon Islands to expand practical cooperation in various fields and better benefit the people of both countries,” Lin said.
Lin said China supported international efforts to assist Pacific Island countries.
“China supports efforts by the international community to help Pacific Island countries realise sustainable development.
“At the same time, in developing relations with Pacific Island countries, all parties should respect their independence, put development first, and uphold openness and inclusiveness. Relevant cooperation should not be targeted at any third party,” he said.
The comments follow an announcement Prime Minister Matthew Wale during a visit to Washington that his government will sign a ship rider agreement with the U.S Coast Guard next week.
According to a Solomon Islands government statement, the agreement will strengthen joint maritime enforcement and surveillance.
The statement said Wale highlighted “the urgent need to enhance security across the Pacific region,” citing increasing threats from drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
The Solomon Islands became China’s closest security partner in the Pacific after signing a security agreement with Beijing in 2022.
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Solomon Islands will sign the “Ship Rider Agreement” for the US Coast Guard to patrol its waters with local police aboard.
This is one of the issues discussed in Washington when Prime Minister Matthew Wale met with the US Coast Guard Vice Commandant Admiral Thomas Allan when visiting the United States.
He also met with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau on deepening bilateral ties, said a State Department readout.
A Pacnews report said the “Ship Rider agreement” will be signed in Honiara next week to strengthen joint maritime enforcement and surveillance.
“Prime Minister Wale highlighted the urgent need to enhance security across the Pacific region, noting the increasing threats of drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing,” the report added.
The US Coast Guard has expanded patrols of the South Pacific in recent years, assisting “ship riders” — local Pacific police — to cover millions of kilometers of ocean to inspect for illegal fishing fleets.
The agreement is expected to strengthen joint maritime enforcement and surveillance efforts.
PM Wale emphasized that the Pacific has become a growing transit route for illicit activities, highlighting the importance of improved maritime domain awareness and coordinated regional responses.
Admiral Allan briefed the Prime Minister on the United States Coast Guard’s ongoing and planned initiatives in the Pacific, including efforts to bolster maritime security and capacity-building across island nations.
He reaffirmed the importance of partnerships with Pacific Island countries, particularly through the Pacific Islands Forum to address shared security challenges.
Under this arrangement, 12 Pacific Island countries have signed the Ship Rider Agreement, with Cook Islands signing the first Agreement in 2008.
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Scholarship Fraud Case Adjourned to August 6
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The court case involving a man accused of obtaining money from university students through false promises of government scholarships has been adjourned to August 6.
The matter of the defendant Donald Keso came before the Honiara Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday and was adjourn to August 6.
The matter is awaiting trial dates to be fixed after the previous trial dates were vacated.
Keso is yet to be summon to appear in court.
The case is now awaiting new trial dates, which will be fixed once the accused appears before the court.
Keso is facing three counts of False Pretences over allegations that he dishonestly obtained a total of SI$4,000 from three students of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
It is alleged that on separate occasions in March and April 2023, Keso falsely represented himself as an agent of the National Training Unit (NTU), now known as the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA).
The prosecution alleges he told the students that if they submitted the required documents and paid him SI$1,000 each, he would arrange for their names to be included in the Solomon Islands Government scholarship list.
Two of the students allegedly paid SI$1,000 each, while a third student allegedly paid SI$2,000 to cover both himself and his sister.
The students allegedly never received scholarship offer letters or any further communication regarding the promised scholarships and later reported the matter to police.
The matter will return to court on August 6 for further mention.
///Ends///
quartership fraud case adjourned to august 6
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
涉及一名男子因虚假承诺政府奖学金而从大学生手中获取资金的案件已延期至8月6日。
被告唐纳德·凯索(Donald Keso)的案件于周三在霍尼亚拉(Honiara)治安法庭审理,并被延期至8月6日。
该案件在之前的审判日期被撤销后,正在等待新的审判日期确定。
凯索尚未被传唤出庭。
案件现在等待新的审判日期,一旦被告出庭,将会确定。
凯索面临三项虚假陈述的指控,涉嫌不诚实地从所罗门群岛国立大学(SINU)的三名学生那里获取总计4,000所罗门元(SI$4,000)。
据称,在2023年3月和4月的不同场合,凯索虚假地自称为国家培训单位(NTU)的代理人,该单位现称为所罗门群岛高等教育与技能管理局(SITESA)。
检方指控他告诉学生,如果他们提交所需文件并支付每人1,000所罗门元(SI$1,000),他将安排他们的名字列入所罗门群岛政府奖学金名单。
两名学生据称各支付了1,000所罗门元,而第三名学生则据称支付了2,000所罗门元,以涵盖他自己和他的妹妹。
这些学生据称从未收到奖学金的录取信或关于承诺奖学金的进一步沟通,后来向警方报告了此事。
该案件将于8月6日再次回到法庭进行进一步审理。
///结束///
Pacific island nations are facing a security challenge in responding to China’s recent missile launch near Tuvalu and keeping their...
The post China’s Missile Test Exposes Lack of Unity Among Pacific Island Nations appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
HMAS Yarra crew visits RSIPF EOD unit to strengthen UXO expertise and Australia-Solomon Islands defence cooperation The crew of HMAS Yarra traded the open ocean for the football field during a visit to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Hells Point Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) facility in Honiara last month. Royal Australian Navy sailors [...]
The post AUSTRALIAN NAVY CREW VISIT HELLS POINT appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Men receive suspended prison sentences
in assault and pig theft case
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
Four men have each been handed suspended prison sentences after admitting to assaulting a man and stealing his pig during an incident in Central Islands Province.
Eddie Brown Hirohavi, Steven Kikolo, Michael Ato and Charles Mola were sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of common assault and one count of larceny of one pig.
The charges arose from an incident on 23 July 2025 between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm at Danisavo Settlement in the Sun Fly area.
According to an agreed statement of facts tendered by the prosecution, the complainant, Gordon Tomiki, was at his home when the four defendants arrived by boat while intoxicated.
Mr Tomiki had a long-standing disagreement with one of the defendants, Michael ATO, and did not wish to see him.
An argument followed between the parties.
During the confrontation, Hirohavi slapped Mr Tomiki on the back of the head, causing him to fall to the ground.
While he was on the ground, Kikolo kicked him on the ribs and Mola slapped him on the forehead.
As the complainant struggled to get back on his feet, Ato slapped him across the face.
The court heard that after the assault, Hirohavi instructed the other three defendants to take the complainant's pig from the pig pen without his consent.
The defendants left with the animal, which was later returned to its owner.
The complainant suffered body aches and later reported the matter to Tulagi Police.
The four defendants were then arrested, interviewed under caution and charged.
The men were initially charged with the more serious offences of assault causing actual bodily harm and larceny of two pigs.
However, following plea negotiations between the prosecution and the defence, the charges were reduced to common assault and larceny of one pig.
The defendants then pleaded guilty to the amended charges.
In sentencing, the magistrate imposed a starting sentence of six months' imprisonment for the common assault charge and 12 months' imprisonment for the larceny charge.
The court increased each sentence by two months after considering aggravating factors, resulting in provisional sentences of eight months for the assault and 14 months for the larceny.
The magistrate then reduced both sentences by 25 per cent after taking into account mitigating factors, including the defendants' guilty pleas and other matters placed before the court.
This resulted in final sentences of six months' imprisonment for the assault charge and 10 months' imprisonment for the larceny charge.
The court ordered that the sentences be served concurrently, meaning each defendant would serve a total sentence of 10 months' imprisonment.
However, instead of requiring the defendants to immediately serve the prison term, the magistrate invoked section 44(1) of the Penal Code and suspended the 10-month sentence for a period of two years.
During the two-year operational period, the defendants must remain of good behaviour and refrain from committing any further offences.
Should any of them offend during that period, they will be liable to serve the suspended 10-month imprisonment sentence in addition to any penalty imposed for the new offence.
The magistrate also encouraged the defendants and the complainant to reconcile and restore peace within their community following the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.
Joseph Iroga of Florida International Legal Consultancy Services represented the defendants while Police Prosecutor Florence Hiroshachi appeared for the Crown.
///Ends/////
HMAS Yarra Crew Learns from RSIPF EOD Specialists in Honiara Visit
The crew of Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Yarra visited the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Hells Point Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) facility in Honiara last month, strengthening cooperation between Australian and Solomon Islands EOD personnel.
During the visit, Royal Australian Navy sailors and officers observed how the RSIPF EOD Unit identifies, assesses, and safely disposes of unexploded ordnance (UXO), which remains a significant issue in the Solomon Islands.
The Solomon Islands has one of the highest concentrations of explosive remnants of war in the Pacific, with RSIPF EOD personnel responding to and disposing of hundreds of UXO items each year.
The HMAS Yarra crew was shown key EOD procedures, including the use of portable X-ray equipment to assess munitions in the field and a remote EOD cutting tool used to safely prepare munitions for disposal.
HMAS Yarra Clearance Diving Officer Lieutenant Alastair Wyatt said the visit demonstrated the high level of expertise within the RSIPF EOD Unit.
“The Solomon Islands is home to one of the busiest EOD communities in the world,” Lieutenant Wyatt said.
“The opportunity to observe them operating in their own environment and learn from their experience was invaluable for me and my team.”
RSIPF Director of EOD Inspector Clifford Tunuki welcomed the HMAS Yarra delegation and said he looked forward to further strengthening cooperation with Australian EOD personnel.
As part of the visit, HMAS Yarra Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Andrew Penfold presented Inspector Tunuki with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.
Lieutenant Commander Penfold said learning from EOD specialists who deal with unexploded ordnance on a daily basis provided valuable professional development for his crew.
“The knowledge and experience shared by the RSIPF team reinforces the importance of strong regional partnerships and helps ensure our people remain ready to support future operations together,” he said.
The visit concluded with friendly soccer and touch football matches, providing an opportunity for personnel from both organisations to build stronger relationships outside of their operational duties.
ENDS////////////////////////
Riffle Range Roundabout upgrade completed, improving traffic flow, road safety and drainage in Honiara The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Riffle Range Roundabout Upgrade, marking another significant milestone under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP). The completion of the roundabout and associated drainage infrastructure represents [...]
The post Riffle Range Roundabout Upgrade Fully Completed appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
SICCI condemns Belaha attacks, warning insecurity threatens tourism, SMEs, investment and visitor confidence HONIARA, Solomon Islands – Honiara, Solomon Islands& The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has strongly condemned the latest series of attacks in Belaha, Central Guadalcanal, warning that if there are ongoing security incidents, it will severely undermine visitor confidence [...]
The post SICCI: Security and safety is vital to growing the wider SME sector. appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Firehouse Market Case
Set For Two-day Trial
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The criminal case against businessman David Kwan over the operation of the Firehouse market at Point Cruz in Honiara has been set down for a two-day trial in the Honiara Magistrates' Court.
The trial will commence on September 15 and is expected to run for two days.
The Honiara City Council, as the prosecution, indicated it intends to call four witnesses during the trial.
The matter was adjourned to July 30 for the first interim mention.
The court excused Kwan from attending that and the remaining interim mention dates, except for the final interim mention on September 11, which he is required to attend.
Kwan has pleaded not guilty to two counts of conducting a private market without prior written permission from the Honiara City Council, contrary to Section 7(1) of the Honiara City Council (Market) Ordinance 2009.
The charges relate to allegations that a market was conducted on December 11 and December 18, 2025, on parcel number 191-023-172, commonly known as the former Guadalcanal Provincial Headquarters site at Point Cruz, without written approval from the Council.
The case stems from a dispute between the Honiara City Council and the operator of the Firehouse market.
Kwan is represented by BETS Legal Service, while Harry Bisafo appears for the Honiara City Council.
BY TONY IROGA
Asphalt surfacing along Mendana Avenue has reached a new milestone, with the first and second layers now extending from the Hot Bread Roundabout to the frontage of ITA Hardware as work continues towards the Honiara City Council (HCC) Roundabout.
The road upgrade forms part of the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), jointly funded by the Solomon Islands Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) said workers are making steady progress on the westbound carriageway and remain on track to complete the road works by early August.
“We understand that these upgrade works cause traffic delays and detours for the travelling public, local businesses, and the working class. We sincerely thank you for your cooperation during this final phase of the road component,” MID said.
MID also urges motorists and pedestrians to exercise extra caution while travelling through the active construction zone.
“Please strictly follow all traffic management signs and instructions from traffic controllers on-site,” MID said.
According to MID, the upgraded road is expected to be officially handed over shortly after completion and will contribute to safer, more efficient, and climate-resilient transport infrastructure for Honiara.
Photo credit: MID
For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), strongly condemns the latest series of attacks in Belaha, Central Guadalcanal, warning that ongoing security incidents will severely undermine visitor confidence and threaten livelihoods of small business operators across the country.
SICCI in a statement yesterday, also calls on the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), to act swiftly and decisively to restore law and order in the area adding that the current security situation is directly impacting the tourism sector and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly those operating outside of Honiara who rely on safe travel corridors and a stable environment for trade and commerce.
“These attacks are not just isolated incidents; they are sending a dangerous signal to both domestic and international visitors.
“When visitor confidence is dampened, the ripple effect is felt immediately by our SMEs, tourism operators, and local vendors. Many of these businesses are already operating on thin margins, and any disruption to tourism flows has a devastating impact on employment and family incomes,” said James Dolarii, SICCI Chief Executive Officer.
SICCI says the security situation in Belaha is closely linked to the Government’s commitment to local content development adding that for the local content to work—and for Solomon Islanders to truly benefit from economic opportunities and resource development—there must first be a safe and stable environment.
“The Government’s local content commitment is a cornerstone of our national economic aspirations. However, you cannot promote local enterprise and skills transfer if businesses cannot operate safely.
“Investment in local capacity is contingent in a secure environment. Without safety, there is no business, and without business, there are no jobs or skills development for our local workforce,” Mr Dolarii added.
The ongoing instability is also casting a long shadow over the broader Solomon Islands business environment and deterring potential investors.
SICCI warns that security concerns are now a primary factor in investment decisions, eroding the confidence that is essential for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
The Chambers says investor confidence is fragile and is built on predictability and safety, adding that for such local content initiatives to thrive, the safety of visitors and operators must be guaranteed.
“If we cannot guarantee the safety of people and assets, we risk losing the gains we have made in attracting foreign investment. This directly contradicts our national goals of economic diversification and resilience.”
SICCI urges all stakeholders to work collaboratively with the RSIPF to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and that long-term security solutions are implemented to protect communities and businesses alike.
For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Two Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers are helping make Tuvalu safer through their contribution to Operation RENDER SAFE.
Operation RENDER SAFE is a multinational mission to address threats posed by Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) left behind from the Second World War.
The Australian High Commission (AHC), in a statement yesterday, said Sergeant Patterson Filiga and Constable Barnabas Talo recently travelled to Nanumea Lagoon, where they joined Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and the Tuvalu Police Service in reconnaissance activities to locate, document and assess UXO remaining in the area.
Numerous explosive remnants of war remain in the lagoon and surrounding areas as a legacy of World War II, continuing to pose a threat to local communities, fishers and visitors, according to the AHC.
The statement said the two RSIPF officers contributed specialist technical advice to identify and record the location of UXO, helping inform future disposal operations and improve community safety.
The officers also engaged with members of the Nanumea community, raising awareness about the dangers of unexploded ordnance and providing practical guidance on how to recognise suspicious items and report them safely to authorities.
Australian Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Captain Emma Griffiths, praised the contribution of the RSIPF officers.
“The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force brings extensive experience and expertise in dealing with UXO from World War Two, making them an invaluable partner in Operation RENDER SAFE,” Captain Griffiths said.
She said Sergeant Filiga and Constable Talo demonstrated Solomon Islands’ status as a regional leader in explosive ordnance disposal while also showing exceptional skill in educating communities about UXO risks and promoting safe behaviour.
Operation RENDER SAFE is an Australian Defence Force-led multinational initiative that supports Pacific countries to reduce the dangers posed by World War II-era explosive remnants of war.
Photo: Supplied
For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Police say they have yet to make any arrests over a series of violent incidents in the Belaha area of...
The post No Arrests as Masked Criminals Spread Fear Across Belaha appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Gold Ridge Murder Case Adjourned,
Probe Underway
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The murder case against a young man accused over the death of a man at Gold Ridge Mining has been adjourned to July 30 as police continue their investigation.
Sipriano Vola, 19, who faces one count of murder, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ricky Rongomea on Thursday.
Public Prosecutor Irene Mae informed the court that investigations are still ongoing, with police yet to travel to the Weather Coast to obtain statements from potential witnesses.
The court also heard that Vola is now represented by private lawyer Hubert Fugui of HOF Law Chambers.
Chief Magistrate Rongomea adjourned the matter to July 30 for the prosecution to provide an update on the investigation.
He also ordered police to complete their investigation during the adjournment period and directed the prosecution to serve part disclosures to the defence before the next court appearance.
Vola is charged over the alleged murder of Jimmy Abel at Pit Four, Gold Ridge Mining, on May 17, 2026.
Police allege Abel was attacked by a group of men while walking from Kolokavisi to Pit Four between 8pm and 10pm.
He reportedly sustained a serious head injury and was found bleeding from the nose.
He was rushed to the National Referral Hospital [NRH], where he underwent several operations before being discharged.
He was later taken back to Weather Coast, where his condition deteriorated, and he died there on May 30.
Vola was arrested and charged in connection with the incident, while other suspects remain at large.
///Ends//
RSIPF EOD Officers Support Tuvalu UXO Safety Mission
Personnel from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Department are contributing to Operation RENDER SAFE in Tuvalu, helping to reduce the risks posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) from World War Two.
RSIPF EOD operators Sergeant Patterson Filiga and Constable Barnabas Talo recently travelled to Nanumea Lagoon, where they worked alongside the Tuvalu Police Service and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel during reconnaissance activities to locate, document and assess remaining UXO.
The explosive remnants of war, left behind from World War Two, remain a potential danger to local communities, fishers and visitors in the area.
During the operation, the RSIPF officers provided specialist EOD knowledge to help identify hazards, record the locations of UXO and support planning for future disposal activities.
The officers also conducted community engagement with residents of Nanumea, providing awareness on the dangers of UXO and guidance on how to safely respond if suspicious items are discovered.
Australian Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Captain Emma Griffiths, praised the contribution of the RSIPF personnel, saying their experience and expertise in dealing with World War Two UXO made them valuable partners in the mission.
Operation RENDER SAFE is an ADF-led multinational effort focused on removing the threat posed by World War Two-era explosive remnants of war across Pacific countries.
ENDS////////////
