The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands (CSSI) will be mounting a ceremonial parade to mark the country’s 39th Independence Anniversary this morning.
Police Commissioner Matthew Varley in his weekly conference yesterday said they are preparing for today’s important event that will be held at the Lawson Tama stadium.
“The parade starts at 8am and the public is able to arrive from 7am onwards,” Mr Varley said.
Mr Varley said the RSIPF, CSSI officers and some of the community groups like the boys scouts and youth groups will take part in the parade.
“The parade for us is a way to demonstrate through our discipline that we honour the country and ready to serve.”
He said it is a way to build pride in the police force and the correctional service and also in the community to show that they are strong and discipline force.
Mr Varley encouraged everyone to come out to the parade and enjoy the event.
“It is open to the public and it will be a great celebration and across the city and also in the provinces police will be mounting an operation to make sure the long weekend can be enjoyed peacefully and safely.
“As said before, these sorts of long weekend, these public holidays are important for community celebrations.
“We want people to enjoy themselves but we want them to do it responsibly.
“My message always is if you are going to drink, don’t drive, if you are going to drive, don’t drink.”
He said they want people to look out for each other, care for each other and make sure if people are starting to drink too much alcohol and get out of hand for people look after their friends and step in and take care.
Mr Varley reminded road users to drive with care and make sure they have their valid driving licenses and registration in order.
He said this is for everyone to move around and enjoy the weekend but do it safely and listen to police for instructions.
“We ask people to take notice of police instructions and to move through the venue in an orderly way and I am sure everyone will have a safe and enjoyable time today.”
