Police arrest suspects in Small Malaita arson

Police at Maka Police Station in Malaita Province have arrested and charged seven suspects in connection to the burning of a permanent house at Wahi village in Small Malaita.

Malaita Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Tex Tafoa, said initial reports revealed a mother and her children were asleep inside the house when the incident happens.

“The family was awakened by outside shouting coming from the suspects. The suspects where threatening to burn the house," PPC Tafoa said.

According to police reports, the suspects then used 1.5 liters of petrol to burn the house. The mother took her children and escape before the fire consumed the house while the husband who was being accused of sorcery escaped later.

The family escaped and find protection at Maka Police Station. They were later transferred to Auki Police Station for safety.

The suspects were arrested and escorted to Auki Police Station where they were charged with arson contrary to Sections in the Penal Code.

The suspects are currently remanded at Auki Correctional Centre awaiting the court appearance.

PPC Tafoa acknowledged Police officers at Maka Police Station for swiftly responding to the report and arrest the suspects.