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 [...]
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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////////////
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Local police and the China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) wrapped up a specialised training programme for close to 100 members of local crime prevention committees (CPC) at Bloody Ridge National Park.
The session developed by the CPLT Tactical Team, was designed to sharpen participants’ risk awareness and build their ability to protect their communities from criminal activity, a police statement yesterday said.
CPLT instructor Song Fangxiao and Liu Guanlai illustrating the technique of controlling skill. Photo by RSIPF
Trainees were split into male and female groups and worked through practical exercises, including three-person grappling techniques for subduing troublemakers and self-defence skills for escaping threats or physical assault.
The training takes on added significance in the wake of a suspected arson attack that recently damaged trees and ongoing restoration work at the park.
Addressing participants, a CPLT representative framed the programme as a direct answer to vandalism.
Wang Yang told the group that fire could destroy trees but not the community’s determination to rebuild, describing the joint training and accompanying donations as the clearest message to anyone seeking to undermine local peace.
As a further show of support, the CPLT donated 30 uniforms and 10 torches to the CPC volunteers.
Photo credit: RSIPF
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The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Henderson Police Station is investigating the burning of a dump truck at Belaha in Central Guadalcanal.
The incident allegedly occurred over the weekend when a group of masked individuals set the vehicle on fire.
The suspects remain unidentified, as they had covered their faces during the incident.
Police have received reports that the suspects entered the village in Belaha while armed with knives and spears, allegedly threatening villagers before the dump truck was burnt.
The incident was first reported by villagers on 10 July 2026.
Police officers from the Guadalcanal Police Post immediately responded and conducted a patrol of the area but found no one.
The following day, police carried out another patrol and again did not observe any suspicious activity. However, shortly after police left the village, the suspects reportedly entered the village, threatening people, and ended up burning a dump truck.
The matter was reported to the Guadalcanal Police by the victims, and police have launched an investigation to identify those responsible.
The RSIPF is appealing to members of the public residing in and around the Belaha area who may have information that could assist the investigation to come forward.
The RSIPF remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of communities and urges anyone with relevant information to contact the Guadalcanal Police Station on phones 32600 or 32601.
[end]
Police media
The post RSIPF investigates burning of dump truck at Belaha in Central Guadalcanal first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Armed intruders broke into a house at Belaha early yesterday morning, threatening a couple with a knife before stealing valuables in the latest of a series of criminal activities at Belaha area and surrounding communities in Central Guadalcanal.
The incident occurred at around 3am yesterday, when two intruders allegedly broke into the couple’s home while they were asleep.
Victim Hollan Soma told this paper yesterday that the men entered through a window after cutting the protective wire mesh before confronting him and his wife inside their bedroom.
According to Mr Soma, his wife was the first to wake after sensing someone inside the house.
He said that as she tried to raise a shout, one of the intruders immediately threatened her with a knife.
“He put the knife close to my wife’s eye and warned her not to shout or speak. He told her that if she moved, they would cut her neck,” Soma said.
He said that one of the intruders stood guard over his wife with the knife while the other searched through their belongings.
“I stayed where I was because I couldn’t do anything. If I reacted, they could have attacked my wife or me,” he said.
He said that the intruders stole the couple’s wallets, an iPhone 11, and a torch before fleeing the scene.
Soma said only $450 was inside his wallet because, after previous break-ins in the area, he had started hiding cash elsewhere.
Soma believes at least two men entered the house, while others may have remained outside.
“We saw two inside the house, but we don’t know how many were waiting outside. The suspects, believed to be men in their 40s, were armed but did not wear masks.
“This is the same kind of incident that has been happening in our area.
“We don’t know why this is happening. Because of the repeated break-ins, we often wake up during the night to check around the house,” he said.
He added that police had conducted patrols in the area before the incident, but believes the suspects may have hidden until officers had passed.
“Police were patrolling before it happened, but I think the intruders hid somewhere until the patrol moved on,” he said.
Soma and his wife reported the incident to Henderson Police yesterday.
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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.
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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.
