RSIPF makes arrests in Honiara as investigations continue into threats on people’s lives

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) made several arrests overnight in Honiara as police continues to respond to incidences throughout the City.

RSIPF Deputy Commissioner (DC) National Security and Support Juanita Matanga says, “Overnight our operational officers in Honiara responded to a few isolated incidents in Honiara, and so far four arrests have been made for possession of marijuana and drink and drive.”

DC Matanga adds: “Our officers also responded to reports of people consuming alcohol in public. The people concerned were verbally warned and advised to return to their homes which they did.”

“Officers also responded to reports of threats against individuals including threats against families of police officers. No arrests have so far been made but our investigations into these allegations are continuing,” says DC Matanga.

“I kindly appeal to members of the public to stop threatening others including police officers. Police officers are basically members of our families and communities and they also have the right to leave wherever they choose without the fear of being threatened by criminal elements. We will investigate those responsible for these threats and prosecute them according to law,” DC Matanga emphasises

Several sections of the Solomon Islands Penal Code spell out the possible offences for threats. This includes section 89 -Threatening Violence, 101- Threats of injury to persons employed in Public Service, 123- Injury, Damage or Threat, 217- Written Threats to Murder, 296 – Threatening to Publish with Intent to Extort, Threats to Burn, etc and 231- Intimidation and Molestation.

These offences carry maximum penalties ranging from one to ten years imprisonment, if found guilty.

Members of the public are encouraged to contact your nearest police station or the Honiara Police Communication Centre (PCC) on phone number 23666 or the Police toll free 999 if you have any information on any member of the public threatening another person.