RSIPF arrest businessman in Honiara for alleged traffic offences

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) calls on drivers on our roads to respect traffic regulations as well as cooperate with traffic police following the arrest of a Chinese businessman in Honiara on 16 April 2019 for alleged careless driving along the Prince Philip Highway in the Ranadi area East Honiara.

It is alleged that a police patrol from the Henderson Police Station was travelling in the outer lane whilst the business man was driving in the inner lane in an easterly direction on the Prince Philip Highway. Both vehicles were allegedly travelling at an average speed of 60 kilometres per hour.

Police alleged that the Chinese National without making a timely signal at an appropriate distance, he made a sharp and short turn right in front of the police vehicle almost causing a serious traffic accident. Police then stopped, approached the man and spoke to him about the way he was driving.

Police alleged the man did not cooperate with them as they tried to explain to him about the manner he was driving at that time but he allegedly acted aggressive and did not cooperate with the officers.

Provincial Police Commander, Guadalcanal Province Chief Superintendent Evelyn Thugea says,

“Police will take stern action against any person who allegedly breaks the law and ignore instructions from authorities.”

She adds: “My officers arrested a Chinese National for allegedly careless driving along Prince Philip Highway at Ranadi and ignored police instructions to drive safely. Always indicate your intention to move to another lane of the road in good time with consideration for other vehicles on the road.”

The Chinese businessman had been charged with two counts being for careless driving and failure to comply with a direction of a police officer pursuant to Road and Transportation Act (cap 131), and released on bail to appear before the Honiara Central Magistrates Court at a later date.

As part of providing road safety during the period of the election of a Prime Minister on 24 April, Traffic Police continues to conduct traffic checks including Random Breath Testing (RBT) at various parts of the Honiara City during the day and at night.