37 people arrested in relation to looting incident in Western Province
OFFICERS of the Royal Solomon Islands police Force (RSIPF) in Western Province have arrested 38 people in relation to a looting incident that occurred at the Sanai logging Camp in the Shortland Islands on 23 August 2021.
Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Western Province Chief Superintendent Mathias Lenialu says, “The suspects entered the logging camp and damaged and looted company properties.”
PPC Lenialu says, “Police have responded to the incident, stabilized the situation and arrested the suspects and escorted them to Gizo Police Station by patrol Boat GIZO for further dealings.”
Chief Superintendent Lenialu says, “The motive behind the looting incident is that the suspects’ party have some disagreement with the company regarding land issue.”
Mr Lenialu says, “The suspects were charged with rioters injuring buildings contrary to section 81 and section 21 (a) of the Penal Code, Cap 26. They have been released on bail to appear before court circuit at Kulitanai on 15 November 2021.
Investigation into the matter is continuing and I appeal to anyone with information regarding this looting incident to come forward and assist police. You can contact Gizo police on phone 60999 or Kulitanai Police Station on phone 44127 or the police free toll line on phone 999.
