By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The suspension of Commissioner of Lands Alan McNeil in November 2025 was “void for want of jurisdiction”, after the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service acted outside his lawful authority and failed to follow mandatory disciplinary procedures, the High Court has ruled.
McNeil was the applicant in the case, while the Attorney General was named as the first respondent, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service.
The Attorney General was also the second respondent, representing the Public Service Commission.
Judge Aulanga Augustine in his ruling on 29 July this year, found that McNeil was suspended before he was formally charged, before he was given the required opportunity to respond to the allegations and without the disciplinary process required under the Public Service Commission Regulations 1998.
The Court also found that the Public Service Commission breached its constitutional duty by refusing to properly hear and determine McNeil's appeal against the suspension.
“The suspension letter offered only a vague, retrospective "opportunity to explain" after the suspension had already taken legal and practical effect, an inversion of the sequence regulation 48 requires.
An opportunity to be heard that is offered only after the event it is meant to inform has already occurred is no opportunity at all.”
The case followed McNeil’s suspension on 13 November 2025 over allegations concerning the execution of lease documents, an alleged breach of a High Court order and an alleged goodwill payment involving a former Prime Minister.
Judge Aulanga found that the Permanent Secretary went beyond merely exercising a precautionary power to suspend McNeil and had effectively determined that misconduct had already occurred.
The judge drew a distinction between the power to suspend an officer and the power to determine that misconduct has occurred.
“The second, and entirely different, function is the determination that misconduct has in fact occurred, which regulation 44 read with regulations 46 to 51 and section 116(1) of the Constitution reserves, in the first instance, to the process of report, charge, response, and, where appropriate, a Board of Inquiry reporting to the Commission, culminating in a decision by the Commission or a validly and specifically empowered delegate as to whether misconduct is established and, if so, what penalty under regulation 58 should follow.”
The Court found that the Permanent Secretary's letter, which stated that suspension was being imposed “given the magnitude of your misconduct”, amounted to a purported finding of misconduct before McNeil had been given a proper opportunity to answer the allegations.
The judge said:
“By declaring that misconduct existed "given the magnitude of your misconduct", the Permanent Secretary purported to adjudicate the very question that Part VII reserves to a process culminating in the Commission's own determination, or that of an officer specifically and lawfully empowered to make such a determination.”
The Court found no evidence of a valid delegation giving the Permanent Secretary the specific authority to determine that McNeil had committed misconduct.
The disciplinary process was also found to have failed to comply with Regulations 46, 47 and 48 of the PSC Regulations.
There was no proper Regulation 46 report shown to have been prepared and disclosed to McNeil, no formal written charge under Regulation 47 and no seven-day opportunity to respond before the adverse action was taken.
The Court rejected the suggestion that McNeil's later opportunity to explain could cure the earlier failure.
“The suspension letter's offer of a future "opportunity to explain" could not cure the prior, concluded determination that misconduct existed; a subsequent hearing cannot validate a decision that was void when made.”
The Court further found that suspension under Regulations 63 and 64 is intended to operate as a precautionary measure pending properly initiated disciplinary proceedings, rather than as punishment following an unauthorised finding of misconduct.
The ruling stated that while Regulation 63 empowered the Permanent Secretary to invoke suspension as a precautionary measure once disciplinary proceedings had properly commenced, it did not authorise him to determine that misconduct had occurred.
McNeil appealed his suspension to the Public Service Commission on 14 November 2025.
Judge Aulanga found that the Commission failed to properly consider and determine the appeal.
He described the refusal as an abdication of the Commission's constitutional responsibility.
“A refusal to entertain an appeal properly lodged under regulation 14, without any reasoned engagement with its grounds, is not a lawful exercise of discretion. It is an abdication of the very function the Constitution vests in the Commission.”
The Court held that the Commission's refusal to hear and determine McNeil's appeal contravened section 116(1) of the Constitution.
The judge stressed that the Commission was not required to automatically uphold an appeal, but it was required to consider and determine it.
“What is required is that the Commission actually consider and determine an appeal properly lodged under regulation 14, giving reasons responsive to the grounds advanced, rather than declining jurisdiction outright or disposing of the appeal by way of informal oral assurance that a flawed process was in fact regular.”
McNeil was reinstated on 28 November 2025, but the Respondents argued that his reinstatement had made the case academic and that the Court should decline to issue declarations.
The Court rejected that argument, finding that reinstatement did not resolve the underlying allegations or determine whether the suspension itself had been lawful.
“First, reinstatement addressed only the practical, immediate consequence of the Applicant's removal from duty.
It did not, and could not, resolve the underlying question of whether the process by which he was suspended was lawful, nor did it resolve, close, or otherwise dispose of the allegations of misconduct themselves, which the Applicant deposes remain outstanding, untested and unresolved to this day.”
The Court also found that the case raised important questions concerning the disciplinary framework applicable across the public service.
“Third, and importantly, the questions raised by the Application are questions of the proper construction of Part VII of the PSC Regulations and of sections 116, 137 and 83 of the Constitution, provisions of general application to the entire public service of Solomon Islands.”
The Court identified eight major failures in the disciplinary process, including the absence of a proper report, the absence of a formal charge, the failure to provide the required opportunity to respond, the failure to properly engage the disciplinary inquiry process, the use of suspension as a punitive measure, the unauthorised determination of misconduct, the refusal to properly hear the appeal and the cumulative effect of those failures.
The Court declared:
“The steps taken against the Applicant on 13 November 2025 did not comply with regulations 46, 47, 48 and 64 of the PSC Regulations and breached the principles of natural justice. The suspension was void for want of jurisdiction.”
The Court has ordered the Public Service Commission or a lawfully empowered delegate, within 28 days, to either commence a fresh disciplinary process against McNeil in accordance with Regulations 46 to 49 or formally close the allegations against him.
If a fresh process is commenced, a charge must be issued within 14 days, McNeil must be given at least seven days to respond, and any Board of Inquiry must report within 14 days of its appointment.
The Court also ordered that any future suspension must be expressly identified as a pending measure and must lapse if the disciplinary process stalls for more than 30 days without good cause.
The ruling does not determine whether the underlying allegations against McNeil are true or false.
Instead, the Court has ruled that any such allegations must be dealt with through a lawful disciplinary process.
In a final warning on the importance of following the prescribed procedures, the judge stated:
“That belief, however sincerely held, cannot substitute for compliance with the mandatory safeguards that Part VIl of the PSC Regulations, and the Constitution itself through section 116(1), put in place precisely to ensure that even serious allegations are tested through a fair and lawful process before adverse action is taken and publicised.”
The Respondents were ordered to pay McNeil's costs.
Mr William Kadi appeared for the Applicant, McNeil.
//End//
Atu pleads guilty following plea
bargain, sentence on Fri
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
Knoxley Atu has pleaded guilty to unlawful assembly following a plea bargain with the prosecution over his alleged involvement in the November 2021 Honiara riot.
The matter came before the Honiara Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where the prosecution applied under section 190 (2) (b) (i) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC) to have the other seven charges against Atu withdrawn.
Magistrate Hollison granted the application, acquitting Atu of the seven charges, after which the prosecution tendered an amended charge of unlawful assembly.
Atu then entered a guilty plea to the remaining charge.
The guilty plea followed an agreement between the prosecution and defence to resolve the matter without proceeding to trial.
Atu had previously faced charges including managing an unlawful society, unlawful assembly and arson arising from the November 2021 Honiara unrest.
Following the guilty plea, Atu’s lawyer Lawrence Kwana of Honiara Lawyers proceeded with sentencing submissions and mitigation and asked the court to consider a non-custodial sentence.
Kwana told the court that Atu had reconciled with a former Prime Minister and was the sole breadwinner for his family.
The defence added that Atu was remorseful for what he had done and that his guilty plea was a significant acceptance of responsibility for his involvement in the November 2021 riot.
The court was also told that Atu’s family had moved to Honiara to be with him and support him throughout the court proceedings, with family members relying on him.
The defence further submitted that Atu had cooperated with police and had expressed regret over the events.
The prosecution, in response, referred to Atu’s record of interview with police, in which he acknowledged being part of the group of people involved.
However, the prosecution said Atu stated that he was in a meeting when the destruction during the riot occurred.
The defence maintained its request for a non-custodial sentence.
Magistrate Hollison adjourned the matter to August 14 at 9.30am for sentencing.
The November 2021 unrest resulted in widespread looting, arson and destruction of properties in Honiara, particularly in Chinatown, where a number of businesses and buildings were damaged or destroyed.
Several public facilities were also damaged or burnt during the unrest.
Special Prosecutor Mary Anne Zurenuoc from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is prosecuting.
///Ends////
BY IRWIN ANGIKI
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) is seeking $6,119,000 additional funds in the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026.
The parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has cautioned MCILI not to duplicate roles of other ministries.
Appearing before PAC yesterday, the MCILI team led by Permanent Secretary Riley Mesepitu said the ministry has ongoing national initiatives and programmes that it is supporting.
MCILI is seeking $6.119 million in supplementary funding for 2026, divided between $3.119 million in recurrent expenditure and $3 million for development projects.
Mr Mesepitu said the recurrent funding will support corporate services ($1.27 million), immigration’s border management system ($1.75 million), and company house equipment ($99,000), ensuring essential services continue effectively.
“There is a need of the ministry especially for the essential service providers like the immigration office and other relevant offices that support it and work with other stakeholders like police and border security.
“In terms of the border management system, I think it is quite a very important function and engagement by our immigration division. Also, we all know that the border management system is now currently being implemented, so our immigration division really needs support,” Mesepitu said.
The development support budget will fund approved value-added and downstream processing projects supporting SMEs, indigenous businesses, agriculture, fisheries, commerce, technology, and forestry.
Mesepitu said the $3million is smaller than the total cost of all their projects approved by the Ministry’s tender board, however said they plan to add the remaining cost in next year’s budget.
“For the Ministry of Commerce, it’s an ongoing activity, and it’s actually in line of the policy priority areas. Most of them are in the support to businesses, indigenous businesses, how we can be able to support our SMEs and get our locals to come in and participate actively in activities. Our ongoing support under the subvention and grant is directly focused to supporting these initiatives.”
PAC Chairman Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, MP for North Guadalcanal, noted ambiguity in MCILI’s explanatory note under its submission for the $3million, questioning who ‘non-public servants’ referred to, cautioning MCILI on financing businesses which do not pay tax.
“Who are these individuals, and are they the owners of the indigenous businesses, and do you have a criteria that are they contributing to the tax? Or do you have tax written certificate that you give them this project? We have learned that there are businesses that continue to be financed without contributing to the tax.”
Mr Bosawai also cautioned MCILI on replicating roles of the Ministry of Agriculture (MAL) and Foreign Affairs ministry (MFAET).
“The [Ministry of] agriculture do the production, you industrialise it, and then the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the external trade access to market.
“You also replicate some of the things that the Ministry of Agriculture is doing, rather than you focus on industrialising. You also focus in growing, to which I think you should focus in industrialising than replicating what agriculture has done.
“You’re also replicating the mandate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade with market. They are the ones who should access markets, so that you can concentrate in industrialising like rice industry,” Bosawai said.
Mesepitu agreed that all the productive sectors need to work and align together to disseminate their functions and services according to what they’re supposed to do.
“Currently the ongoing consultation with our policy unit, plus the productive sectors, those are the areas that we are looking for and looking into improving,” he said.
In 90 days since change of government in mid-May this year, PS Mesepitu said their ongoing discussions have come up with five priority areas.
Priority 1 – national production and import substitution.
Priority 2 – land reform and productive partnership.
Priority 3 – indigenous enterprise development and business protection.
Priority 4 – national connectivity and market access.
Priority 5 – provincial growth corridors and investment zones.
“Under priority one, MCILI at the high level, we’re supposed to lead the import substitution policy, local manufacturing, SME development, value addition and industrialisation.
“Under priority number two, the Ministry’s involvement is to develop investment frameworks and public-private community partnerships to unlock productive investment.
“Priority number three is the indigenous enterprise development and business protection. What the Ministry is supposed to do is to lead the indigenous business protection, business reforms, procurement reform, SME financing and enterprise development.
“Under the priority four, national connectivity and market access, we try to see how best we can work and do the linking between other productive sectors, for instance the ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries. But what we’re going to do here is we support the e-commerce platforms, trade facilitation and domestic market access systems. So, our export and promotion division is working very closely with external trade, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Priority number five is on the provincial growth corridors and investment zones. This is where the Ministry will lead the development of the investment zones, the industrial estate special economic zone for that matter, and investment promotion. So that’s at a high level and what we are currently working towards,” Mesepitu said.
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BY JOSES SAREN
THE Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) is seeking $532,455.61 in supplementary funding, and has proposed shifting $4 million from its recurrent budget to development budget to fast-track provincial airport works.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry yesterday afternoon into the 2026 Supplementary Bill, Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea said the ministry’s submission comprises of two components under Parts 2 and 3 of the bill.
The advance warrant totals $532,455.61 for the Solomon Islands National Computer Emergency Response Team (SolCERT).
Danitofea said the advance warrant is carried-forward funding sought from the Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) Foundation in 2024, with implementation beginning in 2025 but not completed due to the procurement process.
“The 532,455 is from the support provided by APNIC carried forward for the hiring of consultants and infrastructure support for the National Computer Emergency Response,” Danitofea said.
He said the ministry has already established servers with an internationally required firewall using the funds.
Danitofea said about $500,000 of the amount will go towards hiring an international consultant to conduct a digital security audit of Solomon Islands and develop a stakeholder mapping and cyber-response strategy.
He said the procurement process for the consultancy is currently with the Ministry of Finance.
On the $4 million variation, Danitofea said the ministry identified savings in recurrent line items including electricity, telephone, water, house rent and security.
He said the ministry is transitioning traditional Henderson Airport functions, including security and specialised equipment maintenance, to Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited (SIAC).
He said MCA is also due to move back into its own office at Henderson, which will further reduce rental and utility costs for the remainder of the year.
Financial Controller Chris told the Committee that the revised recurrent estimates will be sufficient to cover the ministry’s operations for the rest of the year.
The $4 million will go towards the provincial airport program, covering the reopening of Avuavu, Atoifi and Malaita Outer Islands airports, and the new Vanikoro Airport.
Manasseh Sogavare, MP for East Choiseul and Leader of Opposition, questioned the $23 million increase in the airfield maintenance and airport terminals line item, from $24.57 million to $47.17 million, and asked whether the works will be completed this year.
Danitofea said construction at Avuavu is about 95 percent complete and at Atoifi, work is more than 80 percent complete, with work at Malaita Outer Islands expected to be completed this year.
He said Vanikoro is a greenfield airport that requires assessment and conceptual and detailed design work, and the ministry is recruiting an engineering firm to carry out the work.
Jimson Fiau Tanangada, MP for Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency, asked about a $10 million cut to Capex-Land, plus a further $2 million cut from another land item, and whether this meant planned airport land acquisitions had been cancelled.
Danitofea said the land acquisition funding was intended for Kirakira and Ballalae airports.
He said negotiations for Kirakira have stalled because one of three landowning groups do not agree to sell to the state, while two others have agreed.
He said the ministry has not received a response from Shortland Islands chiefs regarding Ballalae, and is separately in early-stage discussions to acquire Mono Airport.
Danitofea said the $10 million will not be of any use by the end of this year based on how negotiations are progressing.
The Committee is continuing its examination of the 2026 Supplementary Bill and budget allocations presented by government ministries and agencies.
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The High Court has ordered two logging companies to pay $62 million in damages to three communities in Isabel Province....
The post Court Awards $62 Million to Isabel Communities Over Unlawful Logging appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
New police station at
Atori nears completion
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Construction of the new Atori Police Station in the Eastern Region of Malaita Province is nearing completion.
The building is now at its final stage of construction. Once completed, it will provide a new and improved working environment for Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) officers serving communities across the province’s eastern region.
Malaita Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Inspector Michael Ramosaea, highlighted the progress of the new Atori Police Station in a recent post on his personal social media account.
“I hope that this will certainly attract more disciplined officers to serve the population of the whole eastern region.
“Officers from the RSIPF looking for a new environment, excitement and new challenges, I invite you to excel your operational experience at Atori Police Station,” Mr Ramosaea said.
The existing Atori Police Station has, over the years, not provided a conducive working environment for officers to carry out their duties.
The development of the new Atori Police Station is an important step towards improving police infrastructure in the province.
It also supports the Solomon Islands Government’s commitment to strengthening national security infrastructure, deepening community-police partnerships, and promoting peace and stability throughout the provinces.
//End//
Photo caption: Part of the new police post.
By Georgina Maka’a The suspension of former Commissioner of Lands Alan McNeil in November 2025 is unlawful, a High Court...
The post Court Rules McNeil’s Suspension Unlawful appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Thirty CPPD officers successfully complete ground control and defence special training
A total of 30 Close Personnel Protection Department (CPPD) of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have completed ground control and defence special training.
The training, which was jointly delivered by the China Police Liaison Team (CPLT), commenced on 10 July and concluded on 30 July 2026.
A three-week intensive training focused on Very Important Person (VIP) protection, close-...
BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Oula Basin Palm Oil Development Project in Vella La Vella, Western Province has been hailed as an important opportunity for economic growth, employment generation and rural development.
Minister responsible for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), Franklyn Wasi expressed the sentiment last week in parliament when he delivered his response to the Speech from the Throne.
He said to ensure the project is successful, the Government will collaborate with landowners, provincial authorities, relevant ministries, state-owned enterprises, private investors and development partners to make sure that investment undertaken is done responsibly and delivers tangible benefits to local communities.
“The Government will also seek technical expertise from regional and international institutions with experience in sustainable palm oil development to ensure that environmental safeguards, social protections, landowner interests and international best practices are fully considered throughout the implementation process,” Wasi added.
He said that apart from this project, the Government also recognises the important contribution of out growers from GPPOL and pledge to continue to support them where necessary.
Wasi however, raised that the successful delivery of these ambitious reforms and investments will depend on strong partnerships and the timely availability of resources.
The minister acknowledged the support to the agriculture sector from farmers, producer groups, cooperatives, provincial governments, churches, non-government organisations, research institutions, private sector stakeholders and development partners.
“Together, we can build a modern, resilient and commercially competitive agriculture sector that strengthens food security, creates jobs, increases exports and contributes meaningfully to the economic transformation of Solomon Islands,” he said.
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Police ministry strengthens
national security architecture
The Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services continues to strengthen the country’s national security architecture.
...
Progress continues at pace on the landmark Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Expansion Partnership, with both Governments driving the initiative forward.
In the last month, Hon John Tuhaika Jr, Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach signed the foundational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the brand new Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Academy, while Solomon Islands and Australian officials agreed to a design for the building, and progressed a plan for a package of support for provincial policing infrastructure across all nine of Solomon Islands’ provinces.
“The new Police Academy is a strategic investment in Solomon Islands’ future generations,” Minister Tuhaika said at the MOU signing ceremony, “and will promote improved professional standards, institutional excellence, governance and systems in the RSIPF.”
Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services Hon John Tuhaika Jr and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach joined senior Solomon Islands and Australian officials to further their joint talks on the RSIPF expansion project.
“These projects are strategic investments that will further strengthen policing services for generations to come,” he said.
Jeff Roach, Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, thanked Minister Tuhaika for his strong backing for the Partnership, and reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting the RSIPF through a multi‐year program underpinned by strong foundations.
“The RSIPF Expansion Partnership is built on decades of uniformed and non-uniformed engagement between Australia and Solomon Islands,” High Commissioner Roach said. “It is a testament to Minister Tuhaika and his team’s energy and enthusiasm that many of the Partnership’s key initiatives are now beginning to take shape.”
Minister Tuhaika and High Commissioner Roach with the signed agreement.
“The MOU signing in particular represents another step in the journey Solomon Islands has been on to develop its sovereign policing capabilities – both for its own national security, and as a key contributor to regional security in the Pacific,” High Commissioner Roach said.
The new Police Academy, to be constructed on a site chosen by the Solomon Islands Government in February 2026 at Rove Police Headquarters Precinct, is the flagship project and major investment of the RSIPF Expansion Partnership. The
Partnership is a joint initiative supporting Solomon Islands’ vision for a strong, self-reliant and enduring security capability, and improved police performance in its service of the Solomon Islands community.
This Academy complements the two countries’ shared determination to make the Blue Pacific secure and prosperous. Guided by Solomon Islands’ priorities, the partnership combines Australian investment with the expertise of officials from both countries to deliver lasting improvements in policing infrastructure and capability.
Officer Acquitted of Bribery Charges
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
Suspended police officer Allen Noni has been acquitted of two bribery charges.
This came after a magistrate found that the Crown had failed to prove the allegations against him beyond reasonable doubt.
Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa found Noni not guilty after a trial on both counts of bribery under section 122(a) of the Penal Code.
“Having evaluated the whole of the evidence presented concerning both charges against Mr Noni, I conclude that the Crown has failed to discharge its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
“I therefore find the Defendant, Mr Allen Noni, not guilty on both charges and hereby direct an acquittal on his part, Magistrate Pakoa said in her judgement.
Another police officer Gravis Afuga was also charged alongside Noni in connection with the bribery allegations.
However, he was acquitted last year after the Crown withdrew the charge due to insufficient evidence and later testified as a defence witness in Noni’s trial.
The charges relate to allegations that Noni gave a police investigator $10,000 on November 8, 2024, and a further $20,000 on November 12, 2024, allegedly to interfere with an investigation into a stolen gold ashes case.
The court heard that complainant was the lead investigator in a separate case involving stolen gold ashes and alleged that Noni had asked him to stop investigating suspect Max Gura and instead focus on another suspect, Peter Olobeni.
The investigator told the court that Noni first allegedly handed him $10,000 at Town Ground on November 8, 2024.
He said a further $20,000 was handed over four days later at Henderson.
The lead investigator maintained that the money was intended to persuade him to withdraw from investigating Gura.
The Crown called three witnesses: the lead investigator and two other police officers.
The two police officers confirmed accompanying the lead investigator during the alleged encounters, but both accepted under cross-examination that they were not present for the conversations that allegedly resulted in the exchange of money.
The magistrate noted that their knowledge of the alleged purpose of the money came from what the lead investigator had told them.
The court also considered the Crown’s failure to tender several documents and exhibits identified during the opening of the case, including statements, the record of interview involving Noni and the lead investigator, photographs of the purported money and other material.
Noni, in his defence, denied bribing the lead investigator or having any intention of obstructing justice.
He told the court that the lead investigator had repeatedly contacted him seeking $100,000 from Gura and that he acted as an intermediary without knowing the purpose of the money.
Noni said Gura eventually gave him $10,000, followed by another $20,000, which he delivered to the lead investigator.
He maintained that he believed he was assisting the investigator, a senior officer and lead investigator, and did not know the money was allegedly connected to an attempt to obstruct the investigation.
Gura also testified that he gave the $30,000 to Noni because he feared his family would be sent to prison if he did not comply with the demand for money.
He denied that the money was intended to bribe the lead investigator to stop investigating him.
The court closely considered the defence argument that the prosecution had failed to establish the specific criminal intent required under section 122(a).
Defence counsel Donation Houa of Public Solicitor’s office argued that Noni’s knowledge that he was delivering money did not, by itself, establish that he intended to obstruct, defeat or pervert the course of justice.
The magistrate also considered the discrepancy concerning the date of the first charge.
She said while the charge alleged that the first offence occurred on November 7, 2024, the Crown evidence consistently placed the alleged $10,000 payment on November 8.
The defence argued that the discrepancy was significant and had prejudiced Noni because his defence had been prepared around the date specified in the charge.
Magistrate Pakoa further found that the absence of important physical evidence created a significant weakness in the prosecution case.
In particular, the alleged $30,000 was not produced in court and there were no physical records from the telecommunications provider to substantiate the alleged text messages and calls.
“The case against Mr Noni, as highlighted by Counsel Houa, is undermined by a combination of weak evidence, that being, the Complainant's unreliable testimony, the second-hand accounts of Officers Madeo and Paru (who admitted they never saw the text messages or the alleged cash exchange), the lack of physical exhibits, and the inconsistent dates of the first encounter.
“Together, these gaps create a cumulative doubt that makes a conviction unsafe,” she added.
Magistrate Pakoa also acknowledged that Noni, as a police officer with years of service, could not simply rely on ignorance of police procedures and ethical obligations when handling money or financial exhibits.
However, she found that this did not resolve the central question of whether Noni possessed the specific criminal intent required for bribery.
The magistrate said the failure to produce the direct physical evidence left the court without an objective basis to determine the true intention behind Noni’s conduct.
She said the court was therefore unable to establish whether he had acted as an innocent intermediary or as a deliberate participant in an attempt to obstruct justice.
Having found the crown had failed to prove the two bribery charges against Noni beyond reasonable doubt, she acquitted him on both counts. ////Ends////
BY JOSES SAREN
Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), John Tuhaika Jr has highlighted progress the Government has made and continues to make through the Ministry of Police.
Speaking in parliament last week, during his response to the Speech from the Throne, he said the speech affirms the Government’s commitment to transform the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) into a modern and professional service.
“I am pleased to inform this Honorable House that progress has been made towards achieving this vision,” he said.
Having stated that, the minister outlined a number of initiatives that have been achieved and those that are in working progress.
Tuhaika Jr said the Government has endorsed the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Expansion and Development Programme 2025-2035, thus, making way for a target of 3,000 police officers by 2035.
He said this year, the Government approved 130 new positions and have completed a comprehensive workforce assessment to identify priority capability areas.
As for initiatives that are in the process, the minister said recruitment policies are currently under review to further strengthen transparency, merit and professionalism in police recruitment.
Meanwhile, he said work is also progressing to modernise and accredit the Police Academy.
“.... with institutional registration well advanced and the review of police training curriculum underway to ensure our officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills and professional standards required for contemporary policing,” he said.
The minister said Government also recognises that a modern and professional police service must be underpinned by fit-for-purpose infrastructure, modern equipment and strong operational capability.
In this regard, he said there is continuous progress under the Police Infrastructure Programme.
“Priority projects include the Burns Creek Integrated Police Station, Mamara Police Station, the Airport Police upgrade, the establishment of eleven new provincial police posts, the redevelopment of the Police Academy, and a nationwide refurbishment programme for existing police and correctional facilities,” said the minister.
To top that off, he said he is pleased to report that the new Police Academy teaching facility which is funding by the Government of Australia has been designed and is ready to commence.
He furthered that the ministry is also strengthening operational capability through investment in modern communications systems, protective equipment, mobility assets and improved asset management systems.
“I am pleased to inform this Honourable House that work is progressing on the implementation of a Ministry-wide Asset Management System and Vehicle Tracking System, supported by the Government of Australia.
“These initiatives will enhance accountability, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the management of Government assets across the Ministry,” he said.
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USP robbery case adjourned
to Aug 21 for judgement
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
The judgement for two men accused of an armed robbery at the new complex of the University of the South Pacific in East Honiara in 2022 will be delivered on August 21.
Chris Yambeyabbi, 37, a West Papuan national, and Eddie Maki, 30, are jointly charged with one count of armed robbery.
Yambeyabbi also faces an additional charge of possession of firearm and ammunition.
The matter came before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly last week, who adjourned it to August 21 for judgement.
Magistrate Hilly told the court she would be travelling for a court circuit this week.
Earlier in the proceedings, the court rejected a no-case submission by the defence and ruled that both defendants had a case to answer.
When called upon to present their defence, both men elected to remain silent and did not call any witnesses.
The prosecution later sought permission to make a reply to the defence’s closing submissions, but the application was dismissed by Magistrate Hilly.
She ruled that the law does not permit the prosecution to make a closing address where the defence has not produced evidence.
Defence counsels then proceeded with their closing submissions before the matter was adjourned for judgement.
The prosecution alleges the two men committed the armed robbery on December 23, 2022, at the engineering department office of China Harbour Engineering Company in the KG VI area.
It is alleged Maki was armed with an axe while Yambeyabbi carried a homemade pistol when they entered the office, threatened the managing director and escaped with items valued at $11,000.
Yambeyabbi was later arrested on January 10, 2023, and police allegedly discovered the homemade firearm and materials used to manufacture firearms.
Public Solicitor’s Office lawyers Ron Dicky Pulekera and Alice Silas represent the defendants, while Public Prosecutor Jeremy Oiofa appears for the Crown.
//Ends///
Man on trial for killing sister’s
pig to know fate, Sept 3
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
A CASE involving a man accused of killing his sister’s pig and destroying her banana garden has been adjourned to September 3 for judgement.
The matter came before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly Friday for closing submissions.
Both the prosecution and defence counsel relied on their written submissions in making their final arguments before the court.
Magistrate Hilly therefore adjourned the matter to September 3 for judgement.
The defendant, who is in his mid-40s, faces three counts of domestic violence.
He is charged with two counts of Domestic Violence – psychological abuse involving his 24-year-old nephew, and one count of Domestic Violence – economic abuse involving his 43-year-old sister.
The charges relate to alleged incidents at a village in Gela, Central Islands Province, in April and May 2023.
The prosecution alleges that the defendant went to his sister’s home armed with a bush knife and an axe while she was away in the garden.
He allegedly killed her pig and chopped down eight banana plants before leaving the property.
The prosecution further alleges that he returned the following month carrying a bush knife and chased his sister and nephew from their home.
He allegedly threatened to cut his sister while she was washing utensils.
It is also alleged that he damaged their water supply by cutting the tank tap and the main water pipe before leaving the premises.
The matter had earlier proceeded to the defence stage after the prosecution called three witnesses and closed its case.
The defence called six witnesses, including the defendant, before closing its case.
Walter Rotumana of Rano & Company appears for the defendant, while Police Prosecutor Iete Tebakota appears for the Crown.
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Solomon Islands, Australia Advance RSIPF Expansion Partnership
The Solomon Islands Government and the Australian Government have taken another major step in strengthening policing capability, advancing key projects under the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Expansion Partnership.
Over the past month, Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services Hon. John Tuhaika Jr and Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach signed the foundational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the construction of a new RSIPF Academy. Officials from both countries have also agreed on the academy's building design and progressed plans for a package of policing infrastructure upgrades across all nine provinces.
Speaking at the MOU signing, Minister Tuhaika described the new Police Academy as a strategic investment in the country's future.
> "The new Police Academy is a strategic investment in Solomon Islands' future generations and will promote improved professional standards, institutional excellence, governance and systems in the RSIPF," he said.
He added that the academy and provincial policing projects are long-term investments that will strengthen policing services for generations to come.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach thanked Minister Tuhaika for his leadership and reaffirmed Australia's commitment to supporting the RSIPF through a multi-year partnership.
"The RSIPF Expansion Partnership is built on decades of uniformed and non-uniformed engagement between Australia and Solomon Islands," Mr Roach said.
He said it was encouraging to see many of the partnership's key initiatives now taking shape, adding that the MOU represented another milestone in Solomon Islands' efforts to strengthen its sovereign policing capability while contributing to regional security across the Pacific.
The new Police Academy, the flagship project of the RSIPF Expansion Partnership, will be built at the Rove Police Headquarters Precinct on a site selected by the Solomon Islands Government in February 2026.
The partnership supports Solomon Islands' vision of developing a strong, self-reliant and enduring policing capability while improving police performance and service delivery to communities nationwide.
It also reflects the shared commitment of Solomon Islands and Australia to promoting a secure and prosperous Blue Pacific by combining Australian investment with the expertise of officials from both countries to deliver lasting improvements in policing infrastructure and capability.
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by Georgina Maka’a The High Court recently ordered a Honiara lawyer and his two clients to jointly repay more than...
The post Court Orders Lawyer, Clients to Repay $2.57M to Logger appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Fr Maelanga Calls for Urgent Action
to Restore Order in Honiara
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
Minister for Home Affairs Fr Manasseh Maelanga raised concerns about lack of discipline and respect with in Honiara city which continues to deteriorate.
Speaking in Parliament this week, the East Malaita Member of Parliament [MP] said; "There is also a growing perception that order and discipline within the city are weakening."
He went on to highlight the disturbance from drunkards and those playing loud music in the communities.
“The unchecked use of loud music and other forms of public disturbance demonstrates the need for stronger enforcement of municipal by-laws and greater respect for the rights of others."
He further stressed that alcohol abuse has become "a significant contributor to anti-social behaviour, domestic violence, disorderly conduct and public disturbances."
Fr Maelanga further stated that petty theft and other minor crimes are also increasing.
"Closely associated with this is the rise in petty theft and other minor criminal activities that affect ordinary citizens, businesses and visitors alike.
“These offences erode public confidence, discourage investment, and create a climate of insecurity that is inconsistent with the aspirations of a modern capital city."
Fr Maelanga said these issues are linked to wider challenges facing the city.
"They are symptoms of broader challenges associated with rapid urbanisation, population growth, unemployment, inadequate urban planning, limited housing, and increasing pressure on municipal services."
He said addressing these problems requires a coordinated national response involving the Honiara City Council, the Guadalcanal Provincial Government, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), relevant government ministries, traditional leaders, churches, communities and the private sector."
Fr Maelanga welcomed the Government's commitment to review the Honiara City Act, strengthen the city's governance, improve financial management, enhance waste management in partnership with Guadalcanal Province and extend essential services to informal settlements.
"These reforms provide an important opportunity to modernise the governance of our capital and establish a framework that is responsive to current realities and future growth," he said.
Describing Honiara as the political, administrative, commercial and diplomatic centre of Solomon Islands, Maelanga said everyone has a responsibility to ensure the city is "clean, safe, orderly, resilient and well-managed."
He said transforming Honiara will require strong leadership and effective partnerships.
"The transformation of Honiara City will therefore require bold leadership, hard decisions and effective partnerships.
“If we are to build a capital city worthy of our nation's future, we must act decisively today to restore order, improve infrastructure, strengthen public services and create a city that every Solomon Islander can be proud to call their capital."
Fr Maelanga said the Honiara City Council and Guadalcanal Provincial Government must work closely together to improve financial management, municipal administration, waste management and the delivery of essential public services.
The Minister added that enforcement agencies also need greater support in maintaining law and order in the capital.
"We must double our efforts to ensure we protect our people from all sorts of harm. I believe, we will need to enhance our support to our enforcement at the Honiara City level. We must support them so that they enforce public law and order within the City."
The former Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the reforms recognise that effective governance of Honiara is a national priority and reaffirmed that the Ministry of Home Affairs stands ready to embark into these national undertakings.
by Georgina Maka’a & The High Court has frozen the ownership of the MV Avaikimaine, barring its sale, transfer or...
The post Court Freezes Ownership of RenBel Constituency-Funded Vessel appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
A hiking adventure on Mount Popomanaseu, the highest peak in Solomon Islands, turned into a four-day rescue operation after two New Zealand hikers became stranded in the remote mountains of central Guadalcanal.
Twenty-five-year-old Keane Isaksson and 19-year-old Luca Zylstra were the focus of a coordinated search and rescue effort involving Solomon Islands authorities and emergency responders. Earlier this week, their families appealed for assistance after learning the pair were stranded, with New Zealand broadcaster TVNZ later sharing their story.
Watch Tavuli News_Current Affairs Program:https://youtu.be/Wv5WUCkZ6tA
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Police have arrested lifetime murder convict and prison escapee, Hency Bosalia, who had been unlawfully at large since escaping custody on November 2, 2023.
Following his escape, police conducted multiple operations to finally locate and apprehend him, a police statement on Tuesday said.
Despite extensive efforts over an extended period, the breakthrough came through effective intelligence gathering, careful operational planning, strong inter-departmental cooperation, and disciplined execution.
These combined efforts led to his arrest on July 20, 2026, police said.
Following his arrest, Bosalia has returned to lawful custody and will continue serving his life sentence at the Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI) facility at Rove, Honiara, the statement said.
RSIPF acknowledges the dedication and professionalism of all officers and community members involved in the operation, whose commitment ensured the successful apprehension of the escapee and reinforced public confidence in law enforcement.
For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Brass Band rocked the crowd at the National Stadium in Honiara during Guadalcanal Province’s 42nd Appointed Day celebration on Monday, August 3.
The band performed after the official parade, showcasing dance patterns, brass instruments and beats, thrilling the audience with a variety of melodies, a statement by police on Tuesday this week said.
The energetic performance captivated crowds and dignitaries alike, giving them a sense of pride and unity.
The Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI), RSIPF, Honiara City Council Law Enforcement, and other participating groups also took part in the celebration with a colourful parade.
RSIPF and CSSI marked the anniversary with a march past that drew cheers from the crowd.
Families and friends came together to enjoy the celebration, with laughter and music filling the air throughout the event.
The vibrant atmosphere reflected the spirit of unity and pride shared among the crowd and dignitaries.
For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
THE ISLAND SUN FRONT PAGE
ISSUE 5669 | THURSDAY 6 AUGUST 2026
‘NOT EVEN 1 HOUR’
Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu has expressed disappointment over Prime Minister Matthew Wale's absence during Guadalcanal Province's Second Appointed Day celebrations, saying the Prime Minister was not present for even one hour at the important provincial event.
The Premier says Guadalcanal, as the host province of the national capital, deserved greater recognition and attendance from the country's national leadership.
Inside Today’s Edition
Premier Atu voices disappointment over the Prime Minister's absence at Guadalcanal Province's Second Appointed Day celebrations (Page 2)
Elite capture must end, says Prime Minister Matthew Wale
Opposition raises concerns over the termination of Permanent Secretaries (Page 2)
2023 prison escapee captured after lengthy manhunt
Deputy Prime Minister Francis Sade reaffirms support for federal reform (Page 4)
Prime Minister Wale reiterates the Government's One China Policy in Parliament (Page 3)
Sports: Boost for Coast as preparations continue
Plus the latest national, provincial, business, community and sports news from across Solomon Islands.
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Government notices and public announcements
Employment opportunities and vacancies
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Stay informed with trusted, balanced and independent journalism from Solomon Islands.
Pick up your copy of The Island Sun today.
www.islandsun.com.sb
HNA POSTPONES ROUND 8 FIXTURES
DUE TO WET COURTS
By FLOYD TERRY JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
The Honiara Netball Association (HNA) has postponed all Round 8 fixtures after persistent rainfall left the Multipurpose Outdoor Courts unsafe for play.
HNA confirmed the decision to Star Sport Wednesday, saying all matches originally scheduled for Saturday, August 1, and Monday, August 3, have been postponed until a later date due to the wet court conditions.
The association said player and officials' safety remains its top priority, prompting the decision to defer the entire round rather than risk injuries on the slippery courts.
HNA added that new dates for the postponed Round 8 fixtures will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, despite the postponement of Round 8, the competition will resume this weekend with Round 9 fixtures.
Matches from the Super, A, B and C Divisions will be played across two courts on Saturday before continuing on Monday and Wednesday next week.
The association has encouraged all participating clubs, players and supporters to stay updated through its official communication channels for any further fixture announcements.
HNA POSTPONES ROUND 8 FIXTURES
DUE TO WET COURTS
By FLOYD TERRY JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
所罗门网球协会(HNA)因持续降雨导致多功能户外场地不适合比赛,已推迟所有第8轮比赛。HNA在周三向《星报》确认了这一决定,表示原定于8月1日(星期六)和8月3日(星期一)进行的所有比赛已推迟至稍后日期,原因是场地潮湿。该协会表示,球员和官员的安全仍然是其首要任务,因此决定推迟整个轮次,而不是冒险在滑溜的场地上造成伤害。HNA补充说,推迟的第8轮比赛的新日期将适时公布。与此同时,尽管第8轮比赛被推迟,比赛将在本周末恢复进行第9轮比赛。超级、A、B和C组的比赛将于星期六在两个场地进行,随后在下周一和星期三继续进行。该协会鼓励所有参与的俱乐部、球员和支持者通过其官方沟通渠道保持关注,以获取进一步的比赛公告。
