RSIPF and RAPPP Strengthen Community Engagement in Western Province

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), through RAPPP, has continued its commitment to building safer communities with a series of successful engagement activities across Western Province. The visits aimed to strengthen relationships with local communities, raise awareness on critical safety issues, and promote proactive measures to reduce crime, particularly during the festive season.

The engagement program included visits to Supato Village in Vella La Vella, awareness sessions at Gizo Market, and interactions with residents of Titiana Village. During these visits, RSIPF officers provided guidance on key safety topics, including sea safety, community policing, the impacts of drugs, crimes related to alcohol, domestic violence, and the COPEN initiative.

Community members actively participated, asking questions and raising concerns, which were addressed directly by RSIPF officers. This open dialogue fostered mutual understanding and highlighted the importance of working together to maintain safety and security within the communities.
Speaking to RAPPP media, Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Sergeant Michelle Tulo of Parakasi Police Station emphasized the significance of the visits, stating

"Community visits are crucial, particularly during the festive season when crime rates tend to rise in Vella La Vella. I urge communities to work together to prevent and respond to crime effectively. I also remind visitors from town not to bring kwaso to distribute to youths, and I encourage everyone to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety."

RAPPP Advisor Kevin Shaw highlighted the importance of community collaboration with the police, saying "Supporting RSIPF in its community policing work is vital. When communities actively engage with the police and follow safety guidance, it strengthens trust, reduces crime, and ensures that everyone can live in a safer environment."

A resident of Titiana Village, Judy Teinai, expressed her gratitude for the engagement, saying "We are grateful to RSIPF for visiting our village and sharing important safety messages. It helps us understand the risks in our community and what we can do to keep our families safe. We feel more connected to the police and supported in keeping our village secure."

RSIPF Officer, Officer Derol Melo, from the National Crime Prevention Department (NCPD), who accompanied the team, described the engagement as a resounding success. He noted the positive reception from community members and the valuable opportunity to deliver key safety messages directly to those most affected. The initiative underscores RSIPF’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with communities, promoting public safety, and encouraging active community participation in crime prevention.

This engagement marks the third provincial visit conducted by RAPPP, following previous visits to Central Province, Tulagi, and Malaita. Further visits to other provinces are being planned for the new year, reinforcing ongoing efforts to strengthen community policing and safety nationwide.