Police witness and sign Gegema-Pakoe by-law over the weekend

Police have attended and witnessed the launching of the Gegema-Pakoe by-law in east Honiara on 23 November 2025.

Supervising Director of the National Crime Prevention Department (NCPD) Inspector Steve Sunaone, Operation Manager of the Honiara City Police Superintendent Mark Buga and Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Superintendent Leslie Kili were among the invited guests to witness the launching of the by-law.

Director of NCPD Inspector Steve Sunaone, in his remarks during the launching appeal, encouraged the custodians of the by-law, which is the Crime Prevention Committee (CPC), to continue encouraging community engagement.

Inspector Sunaone said it is essential that you continue to embrace and foster public consultation, collaborate with relevant stakeholders and conduct educational awareness programmes. This is vital for your ongoing effort to engage our community for the betterment of all who live here.

Director Sunaone appeals to respective leaders and stakeholders to participate and support this by-law in one way or another. The church leaders, Honiara City Council, the national government, the private sector and non-government organisations must recognise this CPC establishment and invest in this community mechanism.

Operation Manager Honiara City Superintendent Mark Buga, in his remark, said

the by-law launch reflects the community leaders’ vision and heart for the community and its people to foster a safe and secure environment for all to live and enjoy and to go about their normal lives or activities without any disturbances.

Superintendent Buga said importantly, 'The by-law to address unwanted problems within the communities and collaboration between police and community members are crucial, and I’m very pleased that your leaders have recognised the importance of this and come up with this piece of legislation or by-law to govern your community.'

Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Naha Police Station Superintendent Leslie Kili urged each Gegema-Pakoe community to embrace the values and principles they represent. The real work begins now. Implementation is the key.

OCS Kili said it is not enough to have bylaws on paper; we must breathe life into them through our actions and choices.

“I call on the CPC to oversee the adherence to these by-laws. Organise community forums to address concerns and ongoing educational initiatives to ensure everyone understands their rights and responsibilities,” said Superintendent Kili.