Police in Makira Ulawa in Solomon Islands are calling for calm as they attempt to shutdown a logging operation in the province.
Logging tracks run like scars across the face of a tropical rainforest on Malaita in Solomon Islands. Photo: Photo supplied/Edgar Pollard - Patrick Pikacha - Felix Naitoro
The Earthmovers Logging Company has been accused by local landowners of cutting down trees on customary land in the Marou Bay area of West Makira.
As a result, the Solomon Islands Commissioner of Forests has requested police assistance to seize all products and machinery belonging to the company at its Makira camp.
The provincial police commander, Peter Sitai, said his officers had accompanied forestry officials to the area where tension was mounting in the community.
"When we talk about logging, we are talking about some parties who support the company while others oppose the operation of the company," Mr Sitae said.
"So this is where police always come in and try to mediate the issue and make sure the problem won't go out of hand."