Police arrest gamblers in Malaita Province

Police at Auki police station in Malaita Province have arrested and charged seven males and three females in Auki town during a police raid targeting gambling in public places including individuals who allowed their premises to be used for illegal gambling activities.

Malaita Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Tex Tafoa, said the provincial government and communities around Auki have voiced concerns over the increasing presence of gambling, alcohol sales and illicit drug use in public spaces
Chief Superintendent Tafoa said these activities have caused significant harm to families and created public disturbances, leading to public health and safety concerns.

He confirmed that police raided a known hotspot and discovered individuals gambling inside a makeshift structure.

“Without hesitation, police arrested 10 people, aged between 21 and 31 years old for engaging in unlawful gambling,” Chief Superintendent Tafoa said.

He said the owner of the premises where the illegal activity was taking place was also taken into custody for further questioning and legal proceedings.

PPC Tafoa said gambling in public spaces is an offence under the Gaming and Lotteries Act of Solomon Islands.

He said police will not tolerate such illegal activities and will commit to maintaining law and order in Auki Town ensuring that public spaces are safe for all residents.

The suspects arrested will face charges under Section 4 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act for gambling in a public place. Additionally, the owner of the premises will be charged under Section 3(4)(a) for the organisation or management of unlawful gambling. Another charge under Section 3(4)(1) will also be laid for allowing the premises to be used for illegal gaming.

PPC Tafoa urged the public to refrain from participating in or facilitating unlawful gambling activities and to respect the laws.

He added Auki police will continue its efforts to curb illegal gambling and related activities and members of the public in Auki should contribute to this effort in order to make Auki a safe town.