Arson victims query police
By SOLOMON LOFANA
in Auki
Victims of the recent burning of six homes at a settlement close to Fote village in Ward Four of West Kwara’ae Constituency, Malaita Province, have questioned why police have not yet made any arrests after the arson attack.
It was reported that at least six homes homes were burnt and destroyed during the arson attack.
Since the burning took place no arrest has been made, it was reported.
A representative of the victims, Max Bobby Ngaliwa’a, said police inaction now pose a security threat to the victims since some of the suspected perpetrators have been seen moving around freely.
Ngaliwa’a said the alleged suspects should be arrested and brought to justice.
He said burning of homes is inhumane and the perpetrators should be made to account for their actions.
He added at the moment the victims of this burning are in fear and have experience trauma after their homes and livelihood were destroyed.
“At the moment we are not safe. Our women and children are still living in fear because some of those who are believed to be involved in the burning are still moving freely around our place.
“We want police to take immediate action and arrest those involved to ensure the safety of our women and children,” Ngaliwa’a said.
He called on police to inform the public on the progress of their investigation.
Ngaliwa’a added police are the only authority the public put their trust and hope for a peaceful community in the society.
“Failure to address our concerns will result in retaliation, which is not a conducive environment for harmonious living in our communities,” he said.
But Malaita Province Police Commander Timothy Apaisi assured the victims that investigations are still continuing.
He admitted no arrests have been made as yet.
However, Auki police have made few attempts to arrest the suspects but were unsuccessful, Apaisi said.
Commander Apaisi calls on the community leaders surrounding the area to work closely with police to ensure peace and harmony prevail.
