The Ministry of Police National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) has responded to an article by Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) which was published on Solomon Star issued No. 7724, dated 13 January 2021 regarding donation by the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) Embassy to RSIPF.
In a statement MPNSCS said, it is usual occurrences for Solomon Islands Government donor partner countries to make a donation of gifts to Government Ministries, Organizations, NGOs and the country, international/national organizations, or other bodies.
“The donations of gifts by these donor partners are done purposely to support and strengthen the capacity of the sectors to which such donation is directed to.
“Accordingly, these do not compromise the mandatory operations and functions of the receiving Ministry or Organization,” the statement said.
The Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services said it is fully aware of the arrangement and it supported the donation of gifts to the frontline policing at the Central Station by the Peoples Republic of China Embassy in Honiara.
The donated gifts by PRC Embassy were to support the RSIPF frontline police during their Christmas and New Year operations in Honiara city and the surrounding communities. The donation came in such time as the RSIPF most needed such help, the statement clarified.
The PRC Embassy officials presented the gifts to the Assistant Commissioner of Police and Provincial Police Commander Honiara City.
It was witnessed by the officers at the Central Police Station during the handing over ceremony. Accordingly, the donation does not constitute elements of corruption; neither does it parceled with conflict of interest that would deviate the RSIPF from executing its mandatory functions.
“Again, the support and assistance of gifts will not in any way compromise the mandatory roles and responsibilities of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF). The RSIPF is mandated to protect life and property and executing its duties without fear or favour.
“The Ministry if Police, National Security, and Correctional Services would like again to appreciate and thank the Peoples Republic of China’s Embassy for their generous support to the RSIPF frontline policing during the important operations,” the statement concluded.
