Police Commissioner Matthew Varley thanks the Solomon Islands Government for showing its confidence and support by endorsing the rearmament of certain specialists units of the RSIPF.
He says this is an important milestone for the RSIPF as it steps up to take total control of the country’s policing as RAMSI prepares to exit the country in June 2017.
Commissioner Varley acknowledged that RSIPF would not be where it is today without the support of the People of Solomon Islands, the Government and RAMSI.
He says extensive public consultation has been carried out and is ongoing to allay any misunderstanding and fears within communities.
Commissioner Varley says a limited number of highly-trained officers from the Police Response Team (PRT) and Close Personal Protection (CPP) team will have access to weapons in specific circumstances while on duty.
He says this will enable the RSIPF to protect Solomon Islands’ communities, borders and waters when there is an operational requirement.
Commissioner Varley says RAMSI has also ensured that the RSIPF has the right procedures and safeguards to ensure that the weapons are issued, carried, returned and stored properly. RAMSI also handed over a state-of-the-art armoury in May last year.
Rearmament of the RSIPF will enable Solomon Islands to meets its international obligations to protect Henderson International Airport and dignitaries after RAMSI leaves. It will also enable the RSIPF to deal with armed offenders and manage crocodile populations. The Police Act 2013 provides the legal basis for the limited rearmament programme and the governance mechanism of this programme is aligned to the Act.
RSIPF is in the process of purchasing the approved firearms, ammunition and accoutrements.
During the implementation phase, RAMSI officers will shadow their counterparts to make sure the agreed systems and processes are followed.
Commissioner VarIey says detailed information on the limited rearmament plans will be disseminated by the RSIPF and the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services in coming weeks.