Police arrest 25-year-old man for theft and intimidation in Malaita Province.

Auki police have arrested a 25-year-old man for alleged theft of property from a relative's residence on 20 July 2026 in Auki, Malaita Province.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) of Malaita Province, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea, said the suspect is believed to have been involved in a series of theft activities targeting people living in and around his community.

PPC Ramosaea said the suspect is believed to have stolen property from people in and around the area where he lives. He has also been identified as a key instigator of antisocial behaviour within the community.

“He allegedly blocked public access roads and demanded money from people before allowing them to pass, particularly targeting women and children," Superintendent Ramosaea said.

The suspect was arrested and placed in police custody. He has been charged with intimidation, contrary to Section 231 of the Penal Code, and simple larceny, contrary to Section 261 of the Penal Code. An additional charge of demanding money with menaces has also been laid against him.

The accused is expected to appear before the Auki Magistrates' Court today (21 July 2026) for a remand application.

“Police will continue to arrest individuals involved in criminal activities, including those responsible for disrupting communities through drug-related offences, the production and consumption of kwaso (homebrew) and other acts that cause public disturbances and nuisance," he said.

PPC Ramosaea also

appealed to community leaders, parents, and guardians in the Faasitoro, Sikitae, Kunu, Kwaibala, and Ambu communities to work closely with police in addressing the increasing incidence of public drinking, black-market alcohol sales, and other common nuisance-related offences.

"We encourage community leaders, parents, and guardians to support police efforts in curbing public drinking, black-market activities, and other forms of antisocial behaviour that threaten the safety and well-being of our communities," Superintendent Ramosaea said.