Pacific

Australia gives weapons, vehicles to Solomons police

13:28 pm on 3 November 2022

Police at the site of Sunday's explosion Photo: RSIPF

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has taken delivery of 60 rifles from Australia.

The Australian Federal Police through its Policing Partnership Programme has provided the guns as well as 11 4WD vehicles and two trucks.

Local media quotes the Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare saying his government places security as a priority.

He said the Solomons must improve and enhance the capability of its police and this transfer of weapons helps realise that.

Sogavare said when it comes to the use of the arms a lot of training and preparedness has gone into the police force.

But the opposition leader, Matthew Wale, called the supply of weapons "very disturbing".

He asked why the police force needs high-powered guns.

Wale said Solomon Islands has a dark history with guns, and with recent events involving the public demonstrating their frustration against the government, the weapons could be used against the country's citizens.