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Members of the public have applauded the presence of the police in most of the polling stations in Honiara and even in the provinces.
Speaking to the Solomon Star a number of voters said the high visibility presence of police had contributed to the peaceful polling day throughout the country.
In most parts of the country, police officers have played an important role in providing security throughout the day yesterday, it was highlighted.
Extra officers have been deployed from Honiara to the provinces.
And that has contributed to the success of election yesterday, reports reaching the paper said last night.
In Honiara Police Commissioner Frank Prendergast has been heading the election operations.
Yesterday he was also seen visiting some of the polling stations around the city to check on his officers and see how the election has been making progress.
At each of the polling stations in the city there are police presence to maintain law and order during polling up.
Along the highway and roads officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Rapid Response Team and Participating Police Force (PPF) were also seen patrolling in convey of vehicles.
Some of the vehicles also visited polling stations.
Apart from land patrol there were also air patrol by a chopper throughout the day and well into the evening.
Yesterday Mr Prendergast acknowledged his officers for their support and the public for their behavior and respect to the election process.
Recently when speaking to the members of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) Mr Prendergast said, RSIPF is well positioned to deal with any incidents that may arise during the national elections.
“The police force is well prepared with resources from the RSIPF, Correctional Services and the Participating Police Force (PPF).”
He said this year’s operation will be a high visibility and preventative operation, dealing with alcohol and other antisocial behaviors.
“Police will be in the provinces as well to reinforce and provide security to polling stations, ballot boxes and a few areas that have been identified.”
With counting kicking off this morning in parts of the country and throughout the period leading up to the formation of a new government police will also be proactive, the Police Commissioner concluded.
By MOFFAT MAMU
