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Ruling on armed robbery ‘no case to answer’ set for March 13

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

Ruling on the ‘no case to answer’ application by defence in an armed robbery case is set for tomorrow, Friday, March 13.

Magistrate court on Tuesday, March 10, heard the ‘no case to answer’ application from defence representing two men accused of armed robbery at the KGVI USP complex in East Honiara on December 23, 2022.

The no case to answer application was heard before Principal Magistrate, Hilly Elma Veenah Rizu.

Chris Yambeyabbi, 37, a PNG national and Eddie Maki, 30, a Solomon Islander were jointly charged with armed robbery.

Yambeyabbi is separately charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition.

At the close of prosecution’s case on Tuesday, March 3, defence informed court of intentions to make an application for a no-case to answer due to insufficient evidence for both charges.

Defence for Yambeyabbi questioned the blurred quality of the CCTV footage saying that there is no evidence to point out that it was actually [Yambeyabbi] that was seen on that footage.

As to prosecution witness 3 (PW3), defence said, “there is insufficient evidence as there was no forensic ballistic report prepared to link the alleged homemade weapon used to Chris”.

Defence for Maki spoke more on the required legal test for a no case to answer that– “PW1 recognition evidence is insufficient to render a conviction”.

Prosecution highlighted the credibility of prosecution witness 1 (PW1) saying that PW1 during trial, gave recognition evidence in court based on CCTV footage of the day in question.

PW1 said he recognised the two men in the CCTV footage as Yambeyabbi and Maki because he knew their body ‘structure’ and ‘shape’.

When PW1 was asked as to how he recognised Maki, he said “he knew Eddie as they resided in one area- Burns creek”.

As to the issue of possession of firearm, prosecution said PW2 testified that the homemade gun was found in his possession.

The homemade gun has ‘’no safety mechanisms’’ as it was poorly constructed hence not safe to conduct a test fire when it was brought for PW3 to conduct its inspection at the Rove Amory to determine whether it was capable of discharging shots or not.

Prosecution told court that PW3 is a qualified expert in short gun, sniper rifles and firearms.

Therefore, prosecution said the defendants still have a case to answer.

The matter was adjourned for Friday, March 13 at 9.30am for ruling on the no case to answer.

In the meantime, court has ordered bail extension for Maki and remand of warrant was also extended for Yambeyabi.

Senior Prosecuting counsels, Jeremy Oiofa from the Director of Public Prosecutions represented the crown. Senior Defence Counsel, Ron Dickey Pulekera represented Yambeyabbi and Senior Defence Counsel, Alice Silas represented Maki.

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Manetoali’s conversation adjourned for March 23

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The conversion case against former Member of Parliament for Gao/Bugotu, Samuel Manetoali has been adjourned for March 23, 2026.

Manetoali is facing multiple counts of conversion charges after the Court of Appeal ruling delivered on October 31, 2025, upheld a 2023 High Court decision ordering a retrial, resulting in the matter being remitted back to the Magistrate court before a different magistrate.

The allegations relate to the payment of a sum of $100,000 around December 24, 2014, into the Gao/Bugotu Constituency Account with the ANZ Bank.

This sum of money was part of the $300,000 which the Republic of China (ROC) provided towards the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Yesterday the matter came before Chief Principal Magistrate Ricky Lomea for plea – whether or not the defendant pleaded guilty or not guilty to the conversion charges.

The defendant was in attendance at the court with his two defence lawyers.

Prosecution was asked to confirm the amended charges in which the defendant was supposed to enter his plea on.

The charges when brought before the attention of Chief Principal Magistrate, appeared defective.

Defence was of the view that prosecution should make it clear the wording of the charges, as the wording as contained in the charges itself would create confusion.

Prosecution sought an adjournment to liaise with the Prosecuting Counsel in carriage of case file as she would be in a better position to provide clear update as to the issue of wording of charges.

Chief Principal Magistrate then ordered that the matter be adjourned to March 23 at 9am for plea.

In the meantime, the court made directions that the Prosecuting Counsel in carriage of the case file is to attend at the next mention to rectify and clarify issues raised in the wording of the defective charges.

Bail was extended for Manetoali.

Prosecuting Counsel, Mr Hendrick appeared on instructions from Mrs Olivia Ratu Manu, and he represented the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Jim Seuika and Mr Sipolo of JS Ward & Associates, represented Manetoali.

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30 DAYS SECURITY

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Government monitoring fuel supply, prices amid tension in the Middle East

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the Government is closely monitoring Solomon Islands’ fuel supply and prices as global tensions threaten to disrupt international supply chains.

National storage capacity of fuel is also low – of the required 90 days of fuel storage, Solomon Islands can only store enough to last 30 days should fuel supplies overseas stop.

Speaking during a press conference over the weekend, the Prime Minister said the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and the Central Bank of Solomon Islands are assessing possible measures should fuel prices increase.

He said the Government could consider targeted fiscal measures, including exemptions on fuel imports, to help cushion fuel suppliers and reduce the impact on consumers if global prices rise.

Manele acknowledged that the country’s limited fuel storage capacity remains a challenge.

“If there is a need for measures such as exemptions on fuel imports to cushion importers, that will be handled by the Ministry of Finance and Treasury together with the Central Bank,” he said.

Providing further updates, Secretary to Prime Minister (SPM)- Special Duties Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers said Solomon Islands currently has enough fuel supply to last between 20 and 30 days.

He said that the country’s fuel storage capacity is about 30 days, while the recommended level for fuel security is around 90 days.

“Our storage capacity is limited. If all tanks are full, we can probably maintain supply for about 30 days, although the recommended level is about 90 days,” Rodgers said.

He added that fuel supply could also be affected by disruptions to key global shipping routes.

Rodgers said that a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, while shipping routes through the Strait of Malacca are also critical for transporting fuel to the Pacific region.

Instability in these areas could potentially disrupt fuel shipments to Pacific countries, including Solomon Islands.

He said despite the risks, current fuel shipments to the country are still on schedule.

Rodgers also revealed that discussions will soon be held with fuel importers and suppliers to strengthen the country’s fuel security arrangements.

He said that fuel supply to several Pacific countries is coordinated through a regional system based in French Polynesia, which manages tanker schedules and distribution.

The planned discussions will focus on improving monitoring systems, supply coordination and fuel storage capacity to ensure Solomon Islands maintains stable fuel supply.

Rodgers added that while supply may remain stable for now, global developments could still lead to higher fuel prices.

“At this point we have enough supply in the country, but prices may still rise depending on what happens globally,” he said.

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FLYING PARTNER

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Airline backs Kings’ international campaign

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Airlines has stepped in to support Solomon Kings FC’s international football campaign after signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to become the club’s official airline partner.

The partnership will see the national carrier support the Solomon Islands professional football club with travel requirements during the 2026 OFC Champions League, providing a timely boost as the team undergoes circuits of regional competition.

According to a media statement from Solomon Airlines, the agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held on the airport tarmac beside a Solomon Airlines Airbus A320 aircraft, attended by players, club officials and airline representatives.

The airline stated that under the partnership it will assist with the club’s travel arrangements while also collaborating with Solomon Kings FC on selected marketing and promotional activities.

“Solomon Airlines Limited and Solomon Kings Football Club (SKFC) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), establishing Solomon Airlines as the official airline partner of the Solomon Kings Football Club.

“The signing ceremony was held on the tarmac beside a Solomon Airlines A320 Airbus, with players, officials and airline representatives in attendance,” the statement from the airline said.

Solomon Kings FC Deputy Chairman Rabieh Krayem welcomed the partnership, saying the airline’s support will help the team focus on performance during its international commitments.

“Solomon Airlines’ support allows our team to focus on performance, knowing our travel needs are well taken care of”, Krayem said in comments published by Solomon Airlines and shared on the Solomon Kings FC Facebook page.

“This partnership will not only help showcase Solomon Islands football internationally but allow us to develop the next generation of football players”.

Solomon Airlines Manager Commercial John Wopereis said the airline was proud to support local football and help promote the country through sport.

“Football means a lot to our people and its important pathways to excellence are encouraged and supported”, Wopereis said.

“Partnering with Solomon Kings reflects our commitment to local talent, local sports development, and promoting the Solomon Islands globally. As the national carrier, we are proud to be the Kings’ airline of choice”.

Solomon Airlines added that the agreement will run for 12 months from the date of signing.

The airline also noted that the partnership highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting community initiatives, tourism and sports development across the Solomon Islands.

Meanwhile, Solomon Kings FC remains the country’s first fully professional football club competing in the OFC Pro League and currently sits third on the competition standings while continuing to develop local football talent and represent the nation in regional competitions.

Photo credit : Supplied

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Solomon Kings’ vision to play in the world cup stages

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BY TONY IROGA

The most important vision of Solomon Kings FC is to make sure Solomon Islands players play in the world cup stages.

This visionary message was given by the deputy chair of the Solomon Kings board Mr Rabi during an open Fan Club community event hosted by Our Telekom over the weekend at Lawson Tama Stadium.

He also acknowledged the Solomon Kings players and supporters.

“What they have sacrificed since they left on the 28th of December and only got back home last Friday, they represent everything in this country,” he said.

He added humility, respect, pride, passion, family, which are all the values of football in this country but also of the Solomon Kings, these gentlemen are the first professional team of any sport in this country.

“We give them a big round of applause for the sacrifice they have made,” he said.

He acknowledged the Solomon Islands supporters in Australia who followed the team when the team went to Brisbane.

“What we saw, the OFC Pro League, without the Solomon Kings supporters in Melbourne, it would not have been what it was, one thing about this nation, it will get behind its team, its supporters,” he said.

“And for their club in Australia, Wynnum Wolves, they have a long history of football with the Solomon Islands, as they toured Solomon Islands 25 years ago.

“Every Solomon Islands player here has a home in Brisbane at Wynnum Wolves, and every Wynnum Wolves player that comes to Solomon Islands has a home,” he said.

He added that the coming weekend, when the boys play their first game against Auckland, in front of a full stadium, they will show Oceania that the heart of football in Oceania is here in Honiara in the Solomon Islands.

Photo credit- Tony Iroga

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NSC sports programme brings Choiseul communities together during Second Appointed Day celebrations

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 BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Communities across Choiseul Province came together through a series of sports and recreation activities organized by the National Sports Council (NSC) during the province’s 35th Second Appointed Day celebrations.

According to a media statement from the National Sports Council, the three-day program was organized by the NSC Provincial Sports and Recreation Development Office (PSRDO) in Choiseul from February 24 to 26.

The activities were coordinated by Sports and Recreation Development Officer Brian Koveke and combined fun sporting competitions with public awareness sessions on community sports development.

The NSC said the program was designed to encourage people across the province to stay active while also highlighting the role of the organisation in promoting sports and recreation.

“The program aimed to get communities moving, promote active lifestyles, and highlight NSCSI’s support for sports and recreation in Choiseul”, the NSC said in its statement.

Participants included community members, students, local sports groups and partner organizations who took part in activities such as sprint races, fun games and interactive awareness sessions.

The program also encouraged inclusive participation, with activities organised for children and persons living with disabilities.

Mr Koveke said initiatives like this help strengthen community ties while encouraging young people to see sport as a pathway for positive development.

“Through programs like this we want to encourage our communities, especially young people, to stay active and see sports and recreation as a positive pathway for health, unity and future opportunities”, Mr Koveke said.

The event also featured motivational prizes and giveaways to keep participants engaged, with support from local stakeholders including telecommunications company, Our Telekom.

“Our Telekom Company contributed free data prizes, and competitors in the 100m and 200m races received sports equipment and giveaways”, the NSC said.

One participant, Ms Careyan Tupiti from Supizae community, said the event reminded her of her school athletics days and inspired her to return to the sport.

“I am really happy to take part in these activities. It reminds me of my school athletics days and encourages me to start training again”, Ms Tupiti said.

She added that she hopes to represent Team Lauru in athletics at the upcoming Solomon Games.

Following the successful program, the NSC said it plans to organize more community-based sporting activities in Choiseul, including a possible long marathon or fun run during the Easter period.

Photo credit: Our Telekom

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SIBF registration clears way for national squads

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 BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) is set to begin preparations for national squads after officially completing its registration with the National Sports Council Solomon Islands (NSC) for 2026.

Information released by NSC through its official media platform on Monday confirmed that SIBF is the 11th national federation to complete registration with the council this year.

The registration was confirmed following the acceptance of the federation’s application by the NSC Board, allowing SIBF to immediately access key opportunities available to registered national sporting federations.

In its statement, NSC Media said the approval provides several benefits for the federation and its athletes.

“Under the NSC framework, SIBF can now book national sporting facilities at no cost for training national squads, while competitions and international events may be held at standard usage rates,” the council said.

The council noted that the registration will also enable the federation to move forward with forming national teams.

“Under this registration, Solomon Islands Basketball Federation is eligible to nominate one Senior Men’s and one Senior Women’s national squad,” NSC Media said.

The council added that the pathway also extends to developing younger players through structured programmes.

“One priority age-group squad for men and women may also be nominated, selected according to NSC guidelines to support the national athlete pathway”.

Another major benefit is access to elite training support through the country’s High-Performance system.

“The federation also gains access to the High Performance (HP) Centre to support elite athlete preparation and development,” the council said.

As a registered federation, SIBF may also apply for financial assistance under the NSC Governance Grant.

“As a registered federation, SIBF may also apply for the NSC Governance Grant of $10,000 and other funding opportunities”, the statement noted, adding that approvals are subject to compliance requirements and availability.

While the federation has secured its registration, NSC Media indicated that SIBF will still submit its audited financial statements for 2025 after its upcoming Annual General Meeting.

Basketball administrators say the registration represents an important step in strengthening the development pathway for the sport in Solomon Islands.

Established in 1987, the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation is responsible for organizing and developing basketball in the country and represents Solomon Islands in regional and international competitions under the world governing body FIBA.

The sport has continued to expand in recent years through development programs that aim to increase youth participation and strengthen women’s involvement.

NSC Media noted that basketball teams from Solomon Islands have also competed in regional competitions such as the FIBA Melanesian Basketball Cup, which serves as an important pathway towards qualification for future Pacific Games and other international tournaments.

The council said the registration forms part of its broader effort to strengthen governance and improve athlete development across national federations.

“SIBF’s registration reflects the NSC’s continued commitment to strengthening governance, building sustainable athlete pathways, and supporting national federations to compete at regional and international levels”, NSC Media said.

A governance recognition certificate has also been issued to formally acknowledge the federation’s compliance under the NSC framework.

With the registration now confirmed, attention is expected to shift towards forming national squads and preparing athletes for upcoming regional competitions in 2026, as basketball continues to grow across the country.

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Three candidates confirmed for Koviloko Ward by-election

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BY BEN BILUA

THREE candidates have been confirmed to contest the Koviloko Ward by-election in Isabel Province.

Election Manager for Koviloko Ward, Reuben Dotho, confirmed that all nomination formalities were completed yesterday, allowing three candidates to qualify for the race.

He said one application was disqualified after it was submitted past the nomination deadline.

“The disqualified application was because the submission was made after nominations had closed.

“It was something to do with nomination requirements as per the Electoral Act,” Dotho said.

He said the decision to disqualify the application was made following advice from the Attorney General’s Office.

Island Sun understands that the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has already announced the date for the Provincial Assembly by-elections for West Baegu Ward in Malaita Province and Koviloko Ward in Isabel Province.

Polling has been officially set for Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

A total of 3,793 registered voters across the two wards are eligible to take part in the by-elections.

Voting will be conducted at 10 polling stations, with seven located in West Baegu Ward and three in Koviloko Ward.

The SIEC encourages all eligible voters in both wards to participate in the democratic process and exercise their right to elect their representative to the Provincial Assembly.

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Premier Veo welcomes AIM-N project

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BY BEN BILUA

PREMIER of Western Province Billy Veo welcomes the Agriculture Investment for Markets and Nutrition (AIM-N) Project, describing it as an important initiative that will help farmers and families generate income while producing healthy and nutritious food.

Speaking during the launch of the project yesterday, Veo said his government fully supports the initiative as it will provide both technical and financial support to farmers while strengthening service delivery in rural communities.

He pledges his government’s commitment to work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to ensure the successful implementation of the project across the province.

Veo also stressed the need for a comprehensive awareness and advocacy programme to help communities understand the importance of the project.

“Community awareness is important as it will play a vital role in the implementation of the project,” he said.

Western Province Minister for Agriculture and Forestry Isaac Jenty said the project will support the province’s 2023–2027 Agriculture Sector Plan, which aims to strengthen smallholder farmers.

He said the initiative will play a crucial role in strengthening local agribusiness development in the province.

Jenty added that the project will benefit farmers through capacity building, improved access to markets and support for agricultural infrastructure.

Western Province Minister for Education, Gordon Zebo also welcomed the initiative, saying it will have a positive impact on schools.

“Today, many schools rely heavily on processed foods such as rice, noodles and flour.

“In the past, many schools-maintained gardens where students grew vegetables and root crops to supplement school meals and learn farming skills. I strongly believe this project will support our schools to improve students’ meals,” he said.

Zebo acknowledged that the AIM-N initiative will support efforts to reintroduce school gardens and promote nutritious local food while equipping students with practical agricultural knowledge.

The Agriculture Investment for Markets and Nutrition Project is a six-year initiative with a value of approximately US$20 million.

Launched in July 2025, the project aims to improve food security, nutrition and rural incomes for more than 18,000 people—representing about 6,100 households—in Choiseul, Isabel and Western provinces.

The government and its partners will work together to support sustainable agriculture, strengthen rural livelihoods and promote healthier communities across Solomon Islands.

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National plan 2026 prioritises social and economic infrastructure

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Solomon Islands National Infrastructure Investment Plan (SINIP) 2026 emphasises the development of social and economic infrastructure across the nation.

The Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) officially launched the plan yesterday, with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and MNPDC Minister Trevor Manemahaga presiding over the event.

At the launch, Mr Manele highlighted the plan’s key focus areas:

  • Transport: As a highly dispersed island nation, connectivity remains a major development challenge, affecting multiple sectors and service delivery.
  • Energy and ICT: Reliable power, particularly through renewable energy, and expanded telecommunications are essential for development, connectivity, and service delivery.
  • Water and Sanitation: Protecting public health through improved water supply and wastewater management is critical.
  • Health and Education: Our greatest resource is our people. Strengthening schools and health facilities is vital for service delivery and human capital development.
  • Fisheries, Agriculture, and Coals: Infrastructure that supports the productive sector and enhances climate resilience is crucial for economic transformation.

Manele emphasised that planning alone is not enough.

“Implementation, discipline, accountability, effective oversight, and strong partnerships are critical to the success of this plan,” he said.

“The government alone cannot achieve this. We value the ongoing support of our development partners and the private sector, and we look forward to deepening these partnerships,” he added.

While SINIP focuses on infrastructure, Manele stressed that it is not just about roads, ports, power systems, or buildings, it is about opportunity.

“It’s about connecting our islands, empowering our people, strengthening our economy, and building resilience for future generations,” he said.

Manele calls on all stakeholders including government ministries, state-owned enterprises, provincial governments, investors, communities, and development partners to view SINIP not merely as a government document, but as a national compact.

“A compact for connectivity, a compact for economic resilience, a compact for inclusive prosperity, and a compact for human capital development,” he said.

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