Opposition questions Attorney-General’s handling of Kalu case, citing concerns over JLSC independence and accountability Honiara, Solomon Islands – Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare MP is questioning the Attorney-General’s handling of the Kalu v Attorney-General matter involving the Judicial and Legal Service Commission. The Opposition has received information that the Attorney-General advised the Judicial and Legal Service [...]
The post OPPOSITION RAISES SERIOUS CONCERNS OVER ATTORNEY GENERAL’S INDEPENDENCE IN JLSC COURT MATTER appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Nearly 100 Crime Prevention Committee members have completed specialised police training aimed at strengthening community safety following a suspected arson...
The post China, RSIPF Train Community Crime Fighters appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has welcomed the Government’s update on its investigation into the controversial 33 unpaid bauxite shipments from...
The post Sogavare Welcomes Bauxite Probe Update, But Raises Conflict of Interest Concerns appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Leader of the Official Opposition Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, MP, has expressed his full support for the call by the Leader of the Independent Group and Member for Central Guadalcanal, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, for urgent action to address the escalating criminal activities affecting communities in Central Guadalcanal.
Hon. Sogavare said the concerns raised by the Member for Central Guadalcanal are serious and deserve the Government’s immediate attention.
“The people of Central Guadalcanal have every right to live in safe and peaceful communities without fear of intimidation, violence and criminal behaviour. The reports emerging from the constituency are deeply concerning and require an immediate and coordinated response from law enforcement authorities.”
The Opposition supports the Independent Leader’s call for those responsible for these criminal acts to be swiftly investigated, arrested and brought before the courts.
“There must be no safe haven for those who choose to terrorise communities, destroy property and threaten the safety and livelihoods of innocent Solomon Islanders. The rule of law must prevail.”
Hon. Sogavare said the ongoing incidents also highlight the importance of ensuring the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force is properly led and supported to respond effectively to growing law and order challenges.
“This is a time when our Police Force requires strong, stable and credible leadership. Police officers on the front line must have the leadership, resources and public confidence necessary to carry out their responsibilities effectively and restore peace to affected communities.”
He also endorsed Hon. Agovaka’s call for leaders, communities and law enforcement authorities to work together to address the situation.
“Keeping our communities safe is a shared responsibility. Political leaders, churches, traditional leaders, communities and the Police Force must stand together against criminality and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
[end]
Opposition statement
The post Opposition leader supports Independent Leader’s call for decisive action on crime in Central Guadalcanal first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Peter Shanel Agovaka leader of the Independent Group and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal, calls for immediate action to address the escalating criminal activity in parts of his constituency.
He said that continued inaction could allow lawlessness to become entrenched.
Mr Agovaka, in a statement issued yesterday, expressed concern over a series of recent incidents in the Belaha area and surrounding communities, including the alleged arson of a logging truck and other violent incidents that have heightened fears over public safety.
He said those responsible must be identified, arrested and prosecuted, stressing that criminal acts are threatening the safety and development of communities in Central Guadalcanal.
“These are not minor incidents of disorder; they are organised criminals who have inflicted disturbances on the peace of surrounding communities,” Agovaka said.
He added that authorities must ensure that those responsible face the full force of the law, regardless of their background or any political or community connections.
Mr Agovaka also said that the recent incidents can have wider economic consequences, and that ongoing criminal activity risks damaging the reputation of Central Guadalcanal, discouraging investment and tourism.
“They are not just stealing property or burning trucks. They are damaging the reputation of Central Guadalcanal. They are driving away investors who bring jobs and scaring off tourists who bring revenue,” he said.
The MP calls on the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, the national government, Guadalcanal provincial leaders and national leaders to work together to respond to the situation.
“This is not a political issue; it is a public safety issue. Let us put aside our differences and form a strong, coordinated response involving leaders, communities and law enforcement authorities. We need visible policing, swift prosecutions, and sentences that send a chilling message to anyone considering a life of crime.
“You and I may be the next target. The next home was invaded. The next family was terrorised. The next business opportunity. So, while we still have the opportunity to act, let us end this now. Let us reclaim our streets, our communities, and our peace. Because if we don’t, who will?”
He urges authorities to strengthen police visibility, carry out swift investigations and prosecutions, and ensure penalties act as a deterrent to future offending.
Agovaka said the issue should not be viewed as a political matter but as one of public safety requiring a coordinated response from law enforcement, community leaders and government.
He also appeals to members of the public to cooperate with police by providing information that can assist investigations into the reported criminal activities.
Photo: Supplied
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Police have stepped up patrols in Belaha, Central Guadalcanal, following a series of burglary and suspected arson incidents and fresh sightings of suspected intruders this week.
Central Guadalcanal Youth Chairman Larry Viravira confirmed that a visible police presence has been maintained in the area since Sunday, after villagers reported seeing unidentified people at nearby locations near communities on Sunday and Monday nights this week.
The latest sightings were on Monday, July 13, after a string of incidents over the past week, including a break-in at Paringiju Mountain Lodge, the burning of a logging truck, and another break-in at Betikama-Kolina 3 in which two people were injured and later admitted to the National Referral Hospital.
Mr Viravira said the first group of suspected offenders was spotted on Sunday near the Mbetilonga mining prospecting camp in Belaha.
He, however, said that the police were alerted immediately, but the suspects fled before officers arrived.
He said another group was seen again on late Monday evening.
“My brother and I saw about six men parked beside the road late in the evening. We recorded the vehicle’s licence plate number and reported it to the police. Police arrived around midnight to collect the information,” he said.
Henderson Police yesterday confirmed that an inquiry file had been opened after reports of the incidents were received and that the report had been forwarded to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Headquarters at Rove for further attention.
Mr Viravira said he welcomes the increased police patrols but calls for a sustained day-and-night presence until those responsible are identified and arrested.
Mr Viravira adds that in response to the security concerns, residents have established six community checkpoints at key entry points, including Upper Tenaru, Betikama River, Paringiju and the entrances to logging and mining sites, where vehicles are checked nightly from 10pm.
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RSIPF OFFICERS SUPPORT PEACE IN SOUTH SUDAN | Eight officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) deployed in South Sudan in Africa are actively involved in promoting peace and security under the United Nations framework. They demonstrate professionalism and resilience despite environmental challenges, maintaining high operational standards and cooperation with mission partners. Acting Commissioner James Aitorea emphasized their commitment to community engagement, protection of vulnerable populations, and peace-building initiatives, while upholding UN values such as integrity and accountability. The RSIPF contingent remains focused on effective policing support and strengthening law and order in alignment with UN mandates.
Source\Photo credit @ RSIPF Media Unit
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Honiara City Council (HCC) has denied claims that it plans to dissolve the Honiara Central Market Vendors Association, despite reports that a letter proposing action against the association had been circulated within the council.
Information obtained by Island Sun yesterday indicated that a letter had been submitted to the Market Master outlining plans to deal with the association and dissolve the vendors’ body.
The Market Master, however, said she cannot make comments when this paper contacted her yesterday, as the matter rests upon the HCC Clerk to make comments on the request.
However, when contacted, the HCC City Clerk yesterday, dismissed the claims, saying the council had not issued such a directive.
HCC maintains that no such decision has been made and that the claimed letter is not genuine.
The denial comes following an inquiry by this paper into the complaints raised by the Guadalcanal Province Council of Women (GPCW) over safety and security issues for their women farmers.
GPCW in a letter dated July 2 2026, advised that women farmers from Guadalcanal would temporarily stop selling their produce at the Honiara Central Market.
The council’s decision follows an incident in which a woman farmer reportedly fell from a vehicle after arriving at the market while re-sellers rushed to purchase cabbages directly from the victim.
The Guadalcanal Provincial Council of Women said the incident reflected wider concerns over the activities of resellers, claiming they often intercept farmers upon arrival, limiting the opportunity for growers to sell directly to consumers and creating an unsafe trading environment for local farmers.
The council calls on HCC to strengthen market management, improve security and address the issue of resellers before Guadalcanal women would return to the market.
Island Sun has also been informed that a meeting involving HCC, representatives of the Guadalcanal women farmers and the Honiara Central Market Vendors Association to discuss the concerns and identify solutions to allow the women farmers to resume selling at the market did not convene.
The Government has defended the independence of its investigation into the controversial 33 bauxite shipments from Rennell Island, rejecting Opposition...
The post Sogavare May be Questioned Over 33 Bauxite Shipments appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, have held a successful joint symposium at SINU’s Ranadi Campus—marking an important milestone in an Australia–SINU research partnership focused on strengthening food security and livelihoods.
The collaboration is tackling a key challenge for Solomon Islands farmers: the high cost of imported animal feed.
Through joint research, SINU and CSIRO are identifying affordable, locally-sourced and nutritious feed options for small livestock and tilapia—helping farmers reduce costs, boost productivity and increase resilience.
Opening the symposium, Dr Vaeno Vigulu, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (FAFF) at SINU, highlighted the importance of international research partnerships in building local capability.
“This partnership with Australia and CSIRO is strengthening SINU’s research capacity and empowering us to deliver practical, locally relevant solutions for our agriculture and fisheries sectors.
“By focusing on homegrown feed options, we are supporting farmers to become more self-reliant and resilient,” Dr Vigulu said.
The symposium brought together researchers, practitioners and stakeholders to share early findings and explore how these can be translated into real-world impact—including expanding community-based tilapia farming initiatives.
Dr Vaeno Vigulu, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (FAFF) at SINU
Jennifer Kelly, CSIRO Senior Innovation Systems Broker, emphasised the value of collaboration in driving innovation.
“This partnership demonstrates the power of combining Australian research expertise with Solomon Islands knowledge and priorities.
“By working together, we can co-design practical solutions that are affordable, scalable and grounded in local conditions—ensuring lasting impact for farmers and communities,” Ms Kelly said
With transport and import costs continuing to constrain agricultural productivity, the research is focused on identifying locally available feed ingredients and improving their nutritional value through scientific analysis.
Farmers at the symposium
The symposium concluded with strong agreement on the importance of ensuring research findings reach farmers and communities. Participants highlighted knowledge-sharing and extension as critical next steps.
As part of the ongoing partnership, three SINU researchers will travel to Australia for specialised training in nutrient analysis of key local crops used in animal feed, supported by the Crawford Fund. This capacity-building effort will further strengthen SINU’s ability to lead locally driven research and innovation.
Australia’s support for this initiative reflects its broader commitment to partnering with Solomon Islands to advance food security, economic growth and resilient communities.
[end]
AHC statement
The post Australia–SINU Research Partnership advancing local feed solutions for food security in Solomon Islands first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
SINU, CSIRO Strengthen Research Partnership to Boost Food Security
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, have strengthened their research partnership through a joint symposium at SINU's Ranadi Campus, marking a significant milestone in their collaboration to improve food security and livelihoods in Solomon Islands.
The partnership is focused on addressing one of the key challenges facing local farmers—the high cost of imported animal feed. Through joint research, SINU and CSIRO are identifying affordable, locally sourced and nutritious feed options for small livestock and tilapia to help farmers reduce production costs, improve productivity and build resilience.
Opening the symposium, Dean of SINU's Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (FAFF), Dr Vaeno Vigulu, highlighted the value of international research partnerships in strengthening local expertise and delivering practical solutions.
Dr Vigulu said the collaboration with Australia and CSIRO is enhancing SINU's research capacity while empowering the university to provide locally relevant solutions for the agriculture and fisheries sectors. He added that focusing on homegrown feed options will help farmers become more self-reliant and resilient.
The symposium brought together researchers, practitioners and stakeholders to present early research findings and discuss how the results can be translated into practical benefits for communities, including the expansion of community-based tilapia farming initiatives.
CSIRO Senior Innovation Systems Broker Jennifer Kelly said the partnership demonstrates the value of combining Australian scientific expertise with Solomon Islands' local knowledge and priorities.
She said the two institutions are working together to co-design practical, affordable and scalable solutions that are suited to local conditions and capable of delivering lasting benefits for farmers and rural communities.
With transport and import costs continuing to affect agricultural productivity, the research is focusing on identifying locally available feed ingredients and improving their nutritional value through scientific analysis.
Participants at the symposium agreed that ensuring research findings reach farmers and communities will be critical to the project's success, identifying knowledge-sharing and agricultural extension as the next important steps.
As part of the ongoing partnership, three SINU researchers will travel to Australia to undertake specialised training in nutrient analysis of key local crops used in animal feed. The training, supported by the Crawford Fund, is expected to further strengthen SINU's capacity to lead locally driven agricultural research and innovation.
Australia said its support for the initiative reflects its broader commitment to partnering with Solomon Islands to improve food security, promote economic growth and build more resilient communities.
ENDS////////////////////////
The Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal- Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka has issued a strong call for immediate action to address escalating criminal activities in his constituency and warns that inaction risks allowing criminal behaviour to become further entrenched.
In a strong statement, the MP condemned the escalating pattern of lawlessness at Belaha and surrounding areas, where individuals allegedly involved in serious criminal activities have created fear and insecurity among communities.
The deliberate arson of a logging truck, and other violent incidents that have raised serious concerns about public safety and security.
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独立党团领袖及中央瓜达尔卡纳尔选区国会议员彼得·沙内尔·阿戈瓦卡(Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka)强烈呼吁立即采取行动,以应对他所在选区日益严重的犯罪活动,并警告称不采取行动可能会使犯罪行为进一步根深蒂固。
在一份强有力的声明中,这位国会议员谴责了贝拉哈及周边地区日益严重的无序现象,声称参与严重犯罪活动的个人在社区中制造了恐惧和不安全感。
故意纵火焚烧一辆伐木卡车,以及其他暴力事件引发了对公共安全和安保的严重担忧。
更多
The Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal- Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka has issued a strong call for immediate action to address escalating criminal activities in his constituency and warns that inaction risks allowing criminal behaviour to become further entrenched.
In a strong statement, the MP condemned the escalating pattern of lawlessness at Belaha and surrounding areas, where individuals allegedly involved in serious criminal activities have created fear and insecurity among communities.
The deliberate arson of a logging truck, and other violent incidents that have raised serious concerns about public safety and security.
“These are not minor incidents of disorder ; they are organised criminals who have inflicted disturbances to the peace of surrounding communities”, the Independent Leader said.
“Let there be no ambiguity, those responsible for these criminal acts are threatening the safety, progress and prosperity of our communities. They must be identified , arrested, and brought to face the full weight of justice.
“We will no longer tolerate criminal behaviour that puts our people at risk. The continued lack of effective action by authorities to address this issue is disappointing”.
The MP made it abundantly clear that he will not accept anything less than swift investigation, arrest, prosecution and appropriate punishment for those responsible.
“Whoever they are, whether hiding behind political connections, community ties, or the cover of darkness, they must be exposed and brought before the law. There can be no sanctuary for those who prey on the innocent,” he continued.
The Leader stated that, “when these criminals act , they are not just stealing property or burning trucks, they are damaging the reputation of Central Guadalcanal. They are driving away investors who bring jobs. They are scaring off tourists who bring revenue. They are strangling the very economic lifeline that Central Guadalcanal offers to this entire nation. And I refuse to stand idle while our future goes up in smoke alongside that logging truck.”
In a powerful plea for unity, he called upon all Guadalcanal national and provincial leaders, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, and the national government to forge a united, ironclad front. “This is not a political issue, it is a public safety issue. Let us put aside our differences and form a strong, coordinated response involving leaders, communities and law enforcement authorities. We need visible policing, swift prosecutions, and sentences that send a chilling message to anyone considering a life of crime .
You and I may be the next target. The next home invaded. The next family terrorised. The next business opportunity. So while we still have the opportunity to act, let us end this now. Let us reclaim our streets, our communities, and our peace. Because if we don’t, who will?”
The MP has vowed to raise this matter with Leaders of Guadalcanal and in Parliament. He calls on all citizens of goodwill to cooperate with authorities and report any information that may lead to the swift dismantling of these criminal networks.
[end]
Independent statement
The post Independent leader and Central Guadalcanal MP demands immediate action on rising criminal thuggery first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
Agovaka Calls for Immediate Action on Rising Crime in Central Guadalcanal
Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, has called for urgent action to address escalating criminal activities in his constituency, warning that failure to act could allow lawlessness to become further entrenched.
In a statement, Agovaka condemned what he described as an escalating pattern of criminal activity in Belaha and surrounding areas, where individuals allegedly involved in serious offences have created fear and insecurity within local communities.
He highlighted the deliberate arson of a logging truck, along with other violent incidents, as examples of the growing security concerns facing residents.
“These are not minor incidents of disorder; they are organised criminals who have inflicted disturbances to the peace of surrounding communities,” Agovaka said.
He stressed that those responsible for the crimes must be identified, arrested and brought before the courts.
“Let there be no ambiguity, those responsible for these criminal acts are threatening the safety, progress and prosperity of our communities. They must be identified, arrested, and brought to face the full weight of justice. We will no longer tolerate criminal behaviour that puts our people at risk. The continued lack of effective action by authorities to address this issue is disappointing,” he said.
The Independent Group leader said he expects nothing less than swift investigations, arrests, prosecutions and appropriate punishment for those responsible.
“Whoever they are, whether hiding behind political connections, community ties, or the cover of darkness, they must be exposed and brought before the law. There can be no sanctuary for those who prey on the innocent,” he said.
Agovaka also warned that criminal activities are harming Central Guadalcanal's reputation and undermining economic opportunities.
“When these criminals act, they are not just stealing property or burning trucks, they are damaging the reputation of Central Guadalcanal. They are driving away investors who bring jobs. They are scaring off tourists who bring revenue. They are strangling the very economic lifeline that Central Guadalcanal offers to this entire nation. And I refuse to stand idle while our future goes up in smoke alongside that logging truck,” he stated.
Calling for a united response, Agovaka urged Guadalcanal's national and provincial leaders, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the National Government to work together to combat the growing threat.
“This is not a political issue; it is a public safety issue. Let us put aside our differences and form a strong, coordinated response involving leaders, communities and law enforcement authorities. We need visible policing, swift prosecutions, and sentences that send a chilling message to anyone considering a life of crime,” he said.
He also warned that no one is immune from the effects of rising crime.
“You and I may be the next target. The next home invaded. The next family terrorised. The next business opportunity. So while we still have the opportunity to act, let us end this now. Let us reclaim our streets, our communities, and our peace. Because if we don't, who will?” he said.
Agovaka confirmed he will raise the issue with Guadalcanal leaders and in Parliament. He also called on members of the public to cooperate with authorities by reporting information that could help dismantle the criminal networks operating in the constituency.
ENDS/////////////////////
Government says the Rennell Island 33-bauxite shipment investigation remains active and will proceed without interference THE Government acknowledges the statement issued by the Leader of the Official Opposition in respect of the investigation into the 33-bauxite shipment from Rennell Island. The Government is committed to ensuring that the investigation is conducted professionally, impartially and within [...]
The post GOVERNMENT STATEMENT ON STATUS OF 33 SHIPMENT INVESTIGATION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Independent Group Leader and Central Guadalcanal MP Peter Shanel Agovaka has called for an urgent police crackdown on what he...
The post Agovaka Demands Crackdown on Criminals Terrorising Villagers in Central Guadalcanal appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
The Government acknowledges the statement issued by the Leader of the Official Opposition in respect of the investigation into the 33-bauxite shipment from Rennell Island.
The Government is committed to ensuring that the investigation is conducted professionally, impartially and within the ambits of the law.
The investigation which was first announced on 10th June 2026 remains active.
BY TONY IROGA
Former police sergeant James Aitorea is the Acting Police Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).
This is after he was sworn into office at Government House on Monday, July 6.
A statement from police yesterday said Aitorea took his oath of office before Governor-General, His Excellency Sir David Tiva Kapu, formalising his appointment as Acting Commissioner.
His appointment comes as the substantive Commissioner, Ian Vaevaso, remains suspended.
The statement said the appointment was made on the advice of Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale under Sections 43(1) and (2) of the Solomon Islands Constitution.
Speaking after taking oath, Aitorea pledged to strengthen community safety, improve police accountability and build stronger partnerships between the police and the public.
“This proactive approach is expected to not only reduce crime rates but also create an environment where citizens feel empowered to engage with law enforcement,” Aitorea said.
He said his priorities during his tenure will include enhancing crime prevention efforts, promoting transparency within the police force and working closely with communities and key stakeholders to rebuild public trust.
The statement said Aitorea also revealed plans to introduce training programmes to improve skills, professionalism and service delivery of police officers throughout the country.
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作者:托尼·伊罗加
前警察中士詹姆斯·艾托雷(James Aitorea)成为所罗门群岛皇家警察部队(RSIPF)的代理警察专员。
这是在他于7月6日星期一在政府大楼宣誓就职后发生的。
警方昨日发布的声明称,艾托雷在总督大人大卫·蒂瓦·卡普爵士(Sir David Tiva Kapu)面前宣誓,正式确认其代理专员的任命。
他的任命是在实任专员伊恩·瓦维索(Ian Vaevaso)仍然被暂停的情况下进行的。
声明称,该任命是根据所罗门群岛宪法第43(1)和(2)条款的建议,由总理马修·库珀·瓦尔(Matthew Cooper Wale)作出的。
在宣誓后,艾托雷承诺加强社区安全,提高警察问责制,并建立警察与公众之间更强的合作关系。
艾托雷表示:“这种主动的做法预计不仅会降低犯罪率,还会创造一个让公民感到有能力与执法部门互动的环境。”
他说,在任期内,他的优先事项将包括加强犯罪预防工作,促进警察部队的透明度,并与社区和主要利益相关者密切合作,以重建公众信任。
声明还提到,艾托雷透露了计划引入培训项目,以提高全国警察的技能、专业水平和服务质量。
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OPPOSITION SEEKS UPDATE ON POLICE COMMISSIONER TRIBUNAL AND RSIPF LEADERSHIP
Honiara, Solomon Islands – Leader of the Official Opposition Manasseh Sogavare, MP, is calling on the Government to provide an update on the tribunal established to inquire into allegations against suspended Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso and to clarify who is currently leading the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).
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OPPOSITION SEEKS UPDATE ON POLICE COMMISSIONER TRIBUNAL AND RSIPF LEADERSHIP
Honiara, Solomon Islands – 官方反对派领袖马纳塞·索加瓦雷(Manasseh Sogavare)议员呼吁政府提供关于成立的法庭的最新消息,该法庭旨在调查对被暂停的警察专员伊恩·瓦伊瓦索(Ian Vaevaso)的指控,并澄清目前谁在领导所罗门皇家警察(RSIPF)。
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