RSIPF EOD operators graduate with internationally recognized training

Eight operators in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit of the Royal Solomon Police Force (RSIPF) have graduated with International Mine Action Standard (IMAS) Level 3 Certificates on 19 February 2019 at Hells Point, East of Honiara.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Operation Support and National Security Juanita Matanga says, “The IMAS Level 3 training program is important to EOD, to further enhance and equip the team for self-sustainability and proficiency.”

DC Matanga adds: “The training will also improve the technical knowledge and skills of the EOD operators to continue address the high demand on them with the presence of UXOs in communities and islands throughout Solomon Islands.”

She says, “The knowledge and skills acquired will also be useful in the light of a proposed EOD Regional School at Hells Point.”

“I would like to thank the advisors who supported the EOD team this far and thank my EOD officers for their commitment to your duties. I also like to thank the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, Ambassador Elizabeth Ebert Gray for attending this graduation ceremony,” says DC Matanga.

Officer In-Charge of EOD and course participant, Inspector Clifford Tunuki says, “The one-year training program is a joint effort between the Australian Department of Defense and United States (US) Department of State (DoS). The US Department of State sub-contracted Golden West Humanitarian Foundation (a non-profitable organization) for a full time based advisor with the RSIPF EOD team to manage the program and also serve as the trainer.”

Inspector Tunuki says,

“The training just completed, is an internationally recognized EOD training which includes topics such as critical decision making, senior leadership management, stake holder engagement, team building, administration management and in-depth technical knowledge on various World War II items which ranges from Small Arms and Ammunitions (SAA) up to 2000 pounds bombs.”

Guests present at the graduation program included the Permanent Secretary in the, Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services Ms Karen Galokale and US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, H.E Elizabeth Ebert Gray.

EOD officers also presented gifts to show their appreciation to the advisors during the graduation ceremony.