KNOXLY ATU – the Malaita For Democracy (M4D) leader who allegedly inspired the rioting, looting and burning of much of Honiara’s business districts fortnight ago – has slipped out of the city and is said to be now hiding in East Fataleka.
Police insiders have confirmed that Mr. Atu is no longer in Honiara
But said police knew where Mr. Atu is and he remains a person of interest in matters relating to the extensive looting, burning and destruction of properties in Chinatown, Kukum and Ranadi in east Honiara
The damage costs the domestic economy more than half a billion dollar, according to the latest estimates provided by the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI).
Mr. Atu was acknowledged for organising a two-day unity reconciliation ceremony at Aimela, on 18-19 November 2021.
The intention of the ceremony came under question mark in Parliament yesterday.
Former Prime Minister Danny Philip told Parliament during the debate on the no confidence motion in Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare that he, like many, was wondering what the reconciliation for unity was all about.
He said just a few days after the reconciliation, M4D led the onslaught on Honiara, looting and burning properties that belonged to people who had nothing to do with the issues Malaita Provincial Government was pushing.
“Not only did the group bring a live eagle with them – they also marched under an Israeli flag when they arrived in Honiara. What they do not know is that Israel established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China and is today its second largest trading partner,” Hon Philip said.
Trade between Israel and China is said to be valued at $50 billion annually.
China and Israel are friends. Israel remains a non-Communist Country despite the relationship,” Mr. Philip said.
