SOLOMON Islands Government, through the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) is working closely with the Australian Government to double the size of Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services Jimson Tanangada highlighted this during his recent visit to Gizo, Western Province.
He told his Gizo-Kolombangara constituents that he is working with one of the country’s top security partners Australia to increase the size of the country’s law enforcement agency within the next five or so years.
“I’m also working closely with Australia on their offer to support RSIPF by increasing our personnel from 1, 500 to 3000 officers.”
He said this is to ensure RSIPF has the capability to deal with security challenges that may arise in the future.
Minister Tanangada added that it is important to increase the size of the national policing force to ensure law and order in the country is maintained.
“This is not just about numbers. It’s about ensuring that our force has the capacity and resources to handle the growing and evolving security needs of our country.
“We are seeing a shift in the security landscape, with new threats emerging both internally and externally and we must be ready.
“Expanding our disciplined force is essential for maintaining peace and security in Solomon Islands,” he elaborated.
Solomon Islands over the years continues to face challenges in maintaining law and order.
Since the 2021 Honiara November riot, regional forces have been coming into the country to provide security and also for major events as the 2023 Pacific Games and the 2024 National General Elections because of the limited capacity by RSIPF to deal with any major security threats if they do arise.
Currently, Australia is also supporting RISPF in the area of maintaining law and order in Honiara.
By MOFFAT MAMU
Solomon Star, Gizo
