Police arrest and charged suspect of arson in East Areare

Officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Auki Police Station in Malaita Province have arrested and charged a man in his 50s for allegedly burning two excavators in East Areare on 26 February 2025.

Malaita Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Tex Tafoa said the suspect, who has a history of criminal activity, reportedly had a dispute with a renowned logging company over financial matters.

The dispute is believed to have led to the destruction of the machines, valued at SBD$2 million.

The suspect has been charged with arson, Contrary to Section 319 of the Penal Code, and has been remanded at the Auki Correctional Centre to appear in court at a later date.

PPC Tafoa expressed his appreciation to officers who conducted the patrols and made the successful arrest.