RSIPF arrests 53 suspects for alleged breaching curfew under State of Public Emergency in Honiara

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) have arrested 53 suspects and detained five vehicles for alleged breaching of the curfew under the State of Public Emergency which was enforced from 8pm 10 April to 5am 11 April 2020 within the Emergency Zone in Honiara.

The 53 suspects consists of 49 male and 4 female. They have been placed in the Naha and Honiara City Central police station watch houses awaiting further dealings from the National Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) through advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). Five detained vehicles are also awaiting a Court decision.

Acting Commissioner of Police Mostyn Mangau says “RSIPF strongly warns our good people to take this matter seriously and avoid breaching the curfew regulation under the State of Public Emergency as the Government tries to keep us safe from this deadly virus.”

Commissioner Mangau adds: “Ships and vessel owners are adviced to adhere to this order and manage your travelling and arrival time before the period of the curfew. Another curfew will be enforces this evening from 8pm to 5 am Sunday 12 April 2020 so people are advised to be at home before the curfew starts.”

“There are heavy penalties including fines and imprisonment for anyone who is found guilty of disobeying the curfew. The fine will be $10,000-00 or five years imprisonment or both.”

“I appeal to all citizens of Honiara and of Guadalcanal to observe this curfew order and stay at home during the curfew period. Do not go out unless it is critical. Let us work together with the Government as it tries its best to protect us all and our children from COVID-19,” says Acting Commissioner Mangau.