Police turning a blind eye on gambling at Rove where the illegal activity is rampant
POLICE have arrested a number of people, including nurses and at least one doctor for gambling, but those who have been caught in the act have turned the spotlight on the leadership of the nation’s law enforcement agency.
They say gambling is rampant at Rove where the police headquarters is located right under the nose of the Office of Police Commissioner, Mostyn Mangau.
Insiders have confirmed that joint operations by police and the Honiara City Council conducted raids in the premises of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Lord Howe settlement as well as the main market.
In the raid on the Ministry’s premises nurses and a doctor were among those arrested, informed sources told Solomon Star.
But police are losing the battle because of what is happening in the precinct of Police headquarters at Rove.
People are saying, clean your backyard first,” insiders said.
“Why are police turning a blind eye on what is happening there, especially right under the very nose of the Commissioner and his executives? Are the laws of this country for the common people only or is there just one law for all?
“Police need to clean up their backyard before turning on us,” they said.
Insiders familiar with the situation said the joint Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF)-Honiara City Council conducted at least four raids at Rove.
“Several people were arrested in the first two raids, but the third and fourth someone had apparently tipped off the gamblers before police arrived. So, there were no arrests,” the insiders said.
And the problem is getting out of hand.
Raids at the Main Market in central Honiara had made no dent, whatsoever.
“What is happening now is that as soon as police leave, the gamblers are back doing their routine. And what can police do when ordinary people point a figure on what is happening at Rove,” insiders said.
Others said gambling is being forced on the people due to the nation’s economic situation.
“People are battling to survive. And they will turn to anything to ensure there is something on the dinner table at the end of the day,” they said.
Solomon Star is awaiting comments from the Office of the Police Commissioner.
By Alfred Sasako
