RSIPF arrests man for possession of marijuana in Western Province

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) in Gizo, Western Province have arrested a male person on 8 October 2019 at the Gizo market after receiving information from a member of the community that he had dried marijuana (Indian hemp) in his possession.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Western Province, Chief Superintendent Mathias Lenialu says, “The man, who is in his 30s, arrived at Gizo by a ship from Yandina in the Russell Islands to sell water melons at the Gizo market with his wife. Some members of the public at Gizo found him with marijuana. The matter was reported to police and the man was arrested on the same day.”

PPC Lenialu adds: “Police found quite a large amount of marijuana stored in a bamboo and could have fetched thousands of dollars if sold to the public.”

“Police strongly believe there are some people who are involved in bringing illegal and dangerous drugs like marijuana and kwaso by ship to other places for sale. Police are calling on the public to provide information about such unlawful activities.”

“This is the first incident of such nature received by police at Gizo since the new market was opened at the Western provincial capital two months ago. Police wish to remind the public not to use the market to sell dangerous drugs,” says PPC Lenialu.

Police at Gizo thank members of the community for their assistance in working together with them and assure the public in Western Province they will continue to work closely with them in keeping and maintaining law and order in that Province.

The accused man will be dealt with and will be bailed to appear before the Gizo Magistrates’ Court at a later date.