Police are continuing their search for two men who escaped from lawful custody at the Honiara Magistrates Court on Wednesday 18 October 2017.
The two men were charged with armed robbery offences and had appeared in Court on Wednesday where they remanded in custody. It is alleged that the two men were involved in an armed home invasion at Panatina Ridge on Friday 13 October 2017. They then escaped from police as they were about to be transported to the Rove Correctional facility.
Over the weekend, police conducted extensive search operations and spoke to many members of the community. Police also distributed hundreds of flyers to the community, with photos of the wanted men. To date, the escapees are still at large.
“Police want to thank members of the public who continue to assist in the operation to recapture the two escapees. I believe that with such assistance police will soon recapture the two men. Police continues to appeal to members of the public to come forward if they have information on the whereabouts of the two escapees,” says Assistant Commissioner of Police, National Capital and Crime Prevention, Gwen Ratu.
The RSIPF also acknowledges community questions about how the men escaped.
“We understand that the community is concerned about how this escape happened. In due course, we will conduct a review of the matter, but at this stage police are working very hard to re-capture these two men. That is our priority,” said Commissioner Matthew Varley.
The two men are:
Frank FIRIMOLEA, 29 years of age from Malaita Province currently believed to be residing in the Green Valley area. He is described as 168cms tall of medium build with black hair.
Eric NATHANIEL Jr, 24 years of age from Malaita Province currently believed to be residing in the Mbokona area, Central Honiara. He is described as 167cms tall of medium build with black hair.
Police warn the public that the two escapees are considered dangerous. Police warn the public not to approach the men.
Report any sightings immediately to the RSIPF via the Police emergency line 999.
Information or intelligence can be provided to the Police Communications Centre on 23666.