RSIPF Brings Safety, Sport and Community Spirit to Maravovo

The Maravovo community in Visale came alive with games, laughter and practical safety demonstrations when the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) brought community engagement closer to local families.

The visit brought together officers from the RSIPF National Crime Prevention Department (NCPD) and Fire and Rescue, supported by advisers from the RSIPF and AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP). Together, they promoted safety, built relationships and strengthened trust between police and communities.

Maravovo Community Leader Chief David Loke said the community was extremely happy to welcome the police and described the visit as a significant moment for the village.

“We are very happy to have the police here with us today. As far as I know, this is the first time police have come into our community like this, and it means a lot to us,” Chief Loke said.

He said the community was concerned about issues including the illegal sale of alcohol, common nuisance and young people becoming involved in illegal activities.

“As a Christian community, it is very sad for us to see these things happening. Having police come and engage with us gives us hope that, together, we can address these issues and restore the good reputation Maravovo once had,” he said.

RSIPF officer Derol Melo said working closely with communities was essential to preventing crime and building trust.

“We cannot address crime on our own. The community plays an important role in helping us identify and prevent crime, and through engagements like this, we can build trust and strengthen the relationship between the community and the police,” Officer Melo said.

The day also included recreational games, giving officers and community members an opportunity to interact and connect in a relaxed setting.

Fire and Rescue officers conducted a practical fire safety demonstration, with children given the opportunity to handle the fire hose and wear firefighting uniforms.

Sergeant Roy Wilfred said the demonstration was a chance to share practical safety knowledge with the community.

“Community engagement gives us an opportunity to share practical knowledge that can make a difference when an emergency happens,” Sergeant Wilfred said.

“Seeing the children get hands-on with the hose and learn about the work of firefighters was a great part of the day. We hope these engagements help build a safer and more prepared community.”

The Maravovo visit formed part of the RAPPP-supported RSIPF community engagement program across Guadalcanal Province. Recent visits include Visale Station, Tamboko, Aola and Tasimboko, with further community visits planned.

Engagements like these allow RSIPF officers to hear community concerns directly, share crime prevention advice and strengthen relationships with the communities they serve.

For Maravovo residents, the visit provided a practical opportunity to raise local concerns directly with police, learn fire safety skills and strengthen connections with the RSIPF officers who serve their community.