STOPPING vehicles on roads and asking for money by youths in Honiara must be addressed as the criminal activity is becoming a big concern to vehicle owners in the city.
Chief Frank Robolite’e from east Honiara said this criminal activity practiced by youths at night on vehicle drivers at feeder roads in many suburban community outskirts of Honiara needs full attention of our national leaders and the law enforcement authorities.
He said it needs a concerted effort to stop this evil crime.
“I was sitting in my house few weeks ago and suddenly, a taxi driver approached and begged me to accompany him,” Chief Robolite’e said.
“I was confused as to why he wanted me to go with him as it was about 5am,” he added.
“When we got to Kobito 2 bridge crossing we were approached by the same youth mob who had earlier demanded money from the taxi driver.”
Chief Robolite’e said as soon as the mob got closer to enforce their demand for money again on the taxi driver, he suddenly got out from the vehicle to talk to them.
Chief Robolite’e said as soon as the demanding mob identified him as leader of the community they hastily fled and disappeared from the scene.
Chief Robolite’s said it was then that he saved the driver from being robbed by the mob and allowed him to driver away.
He said experience from the past have shown that many youths form gangs to demand money from vehicle owners for one simple reason “to buy alcoholic drinks.”
“I am very concerned and want to see this bad attitude stopped,” Chief Robolite’e said.
“Chiefs, church and community leaders must work together with police to stop such reckless attitude and behavior,” he added.
He said the bad practice had created fear for vehicle drivers who in turn refused to drive vehicles through the area at night time.
Chief Robolite’e said the crime must be eliminated allowing vehicle drivers freedom of movement on all roads in Honiara.
He said this task can only be done with the cooperation of every one with the law enforcement authorities such as the police.
By LESLEY SANGA
