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FSC Gizo secures justice in landmark domestic violence case

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

The Family Support Center (FSC) in Gizo, Western Province, has successfully secured a conviction in a domestic violence case—marking a major victory for survivors of gender-based violence in the region.

The successful conviction is a powerful message to perpetrators of domestic violence that such behavior will not be tolerated.

According to FSC Para-legal Officer Vian Vozoto, the case, which spanned three years, resulted in the perpetrator being charged and sentenced to prison.

Vozoto said the FSC provided critical evidence that supported the police investigation and prosecution.

“This is a huge achievement for us and we are proud of it.

“As a woman myself, I’m happy to see another woman happy and creating a new life after surviving domestic violence,” she said.

Vozoto highlighted that despite the positive outcome, challenges remain in dealing with domestic violence cases.

She noted her office faces differing views with the police on how to handle certain incidents.

“Sometimes the police see cases as family issues, but we see them differently—we see them from the perspective of the victim’s safety.

“From experience, some women are badly beaten after reporting to the police, especially when both the victim and perpetrator are sent home together,” Vozoto said.

She praised the collaborative efforts of SAFENET in Western Province, saying the network is functioning effectively and providing essential support across agencies to assist survivors.

The case represents a significant milestone for FSC Gizo and underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to combat domestic violence and protect vulnerable women in communities.

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Judgement date moved for 2016 dolphin case

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Judgment for the case against the Ministry of Environment (MECDM), Ministry of Fisheries (MFMR) and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025 at the High Court has been vacated as the presiding judge is on court circuit.

The matter will be relisted for judgment after the court circuit, with a new date to be confirmed later.

This civil case was filed in 2016 by the late Dr Braddley Anita, owner of the Solmarine Mammal Breeding Centre.

The first defendant is the MECDM and MFMR and the second defendant is the RSIPF.

The trial was conducted before Judge Augustine Aulanga at High Court on April 3, 2025, where lawyer for the claimant called one witness, the daughter of late Dr Anita to testify in court.

The Attorney General Chamber which represents the first and second defendant called one witness, the Director of Fisheries.

The lawyer for the claimant claims that the destruction of claimant property at Bungana, way back in 2016. The destruction of property was done by the MFMR and police.

The claimant claimed that the MFMR and police did not have the legal authority to do the actions of destruction of the claimant’s property. Thus, the Solmarine Mammal Breeding Centre claimed for the damages and destruction the defendants caused to their property on October 29, 2016.

The claimant seeks the court $31,819,591.03 for the damage the defendants caused to their property in 2016 for raiding and destruction of their dolphin captive breeding facility on Bungana Island, Central Province.

The claimant’s claim is for damages caused and other losses. The regulation was declared null and void by the High Court in 2018.

In response to the claimant’s claim the MECDM and MFMR argued that the destruction was authorised by Fisheries (Prohibition of Export of Dolphins) Regulations 2013.

The Solmarine Mammal Breeding Centre captive breeding programme was 100 percent indigenously owned and operated and was initiated in 2009/2010 and fully operational from 2011.

The officers from the MFMR and police in Honiara raided the facility and released 35 dolphins kept in pens by Solmarine.

Late Dr Anita had a license to operate the facility, which was issued by the Environment Division. Central Province had also issued Dr Anita a license to operate in the province.

But MFMR authorities said the caging of the live dolphins was against the Fisheries Act.

The MFMR’s regulations prohibit any export of dolphins, therefore any person who catches for sale and retain in captivity for sale, exports any live dolphin or operates a dolphin holding facility for the purposes for sale or export, commits an offence and is liable for a fine under this regulation which is $500,000 or imprisonment for two years or both.

Rano and Company Law firm act for the claimant and Attorney General’s Chamber act for the 1st and 2nd defendants.

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Defence in police bribery case says no case to answer

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Defence in the case of a police officer accused of bribery has told court it is going for a ‘no case to answer’.

Defence confirmed its position in court on Thursday, July 10, 2025, indicating a No Case to Answer (NCTA) application for the police officer accused of bribery in connection with a separate case involving stolen gold ashes.

Court adjourned the matter for Friday next week, July 18, for the hearing of the no case to answer submission.  

In the meantime, the defence is to file their NCTA applications and serve a copy to prosecution for their response.

Allen Noni faces two counts of bribery, contrary to section 122 (a) of the Penal Code. He pleaded not guilty.

The trial commenced June 30, 2025 before Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa.

Prosecution called three witnesses.

Prosecution alleged that on November 8, 2024 at 3.32pm, the defendant sent a text message to the complainant, stating that he wanted to meet in person. They later met at around 7.30pm at the Town Ground area, Honiara where Noni allegedly gave $10,000 to the complainant.

On November 12, 2024 the defendant and the complainant met again at Henderson area, where Noni allegedly bribed the complainant with another $20,000.

The total sum of $30,000 was allegedly given to the complainant by Noni to prevent the lead investigator from investigating an accused in another case involving stolen gold ashes.

Jeremy Oiofa from the Office of Director of Public Prosecution act for the crown and Donation Houa from PSO is representing Noni.

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Judge on holiday, murder-rape trial suspended

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial of a man charged with rape and murder of a woman at New Vunuha, Ngella in Central Province, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at the High Court did not proceed due to the presiding judge being on annual leave.

The court has adjourned the hearing for Monday next week, July 14, for confirmation on whether the trial will proceed or not.

Joe Koti, 41, is charged with one count of murder and one count of rape. He pleaded not guilty and the matter was committed to the High Court for trial.

The prosecution will call about seven witnesses for the trial.

Police allege that on August 25, 2024 at New Vunuha village, the 31-year-old deceased was at her home with her family.

On that day, the deceased’s family was having a family gathering.

Around 6pm, the family had their dinner, which was followed by discussion and storytelling sessions. The meeting ended around midnight.

After the meeting, the people that gathered for the family meeting left while the deceased and another two women remained at the deceased’s house to clean up.

Between 12am and 1am the deceased and the two women were cleaning when a person called in the house.

It was alleged that a person who had just come back from fishing, gave some fish to the deceased and the two women.

The deceased told one of the women to cook the fish while she left for a house belonging to a couple, which is about 40 to 50 meters away from her house.

It was alleged that she was returning a pot they had borrowed for the family gathering earlier that night.

The deceased returned after an hour had passed and told one of the women that her body was not okay.

The woman asked the deceased what had happened and saw blood flowing down between her legs.

The deceased told the woman that on her way, the accused grabbed both of her hands and shut her mouth and dragged her into the grass and raped her with force.

It was further alleged that the deceased felt something inside her belly that cracked and burst. After that she felt heavy bleeding.

The deceased struggled and managed to get up and tried her best to walk back to her house.

As she reached her house the two women tried their best to stop the bleeding however were unable to stop it.

They took her to Tulagi the morning of August 26 and later referred her to National Referral Hospital (NRH). However, upon her arrival at NRH she was pronounced dead.

John Wesley Zoze from the Office of Public Prosecution act for the crown and Ben Ifuto’o from PSO represent Koti.

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GBV ON A HIGH

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Family support centre office in Gizo reports increase in gender-based domestic violence in the province

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

The Family Support Centre (FSC) office in Gizo has reported an increase in gender-based violence (GBV) cases since its establishment in Western Province.

Para-legal Officer Vian Vozoto said the office has dealt with a range of cases from minor cases to very serious ones since its opening.

Vozoto said FSC Gizo rolled out community awareness programmes last year, reaching communities in Vella, Simbo, Rannonga and Kolombangara.

She said the programmes aimed to educate women and girls about domestic violence and how to seek help.

“There may be many unreported cases due to the geographical challenges of our province.

“We’ve been informed of incidents occurring on remote islands, but victims struggle to access our services due to transport issues and financial constraints,” Vozoto said.

FSC Counselor Marisha Totogi said many survivors supported by the center are now helping raise awareness within their communities.

“Survivors are becoming advocates, helping others understand that support is available,” she said.

Totogi said GBV is still a major issue and the best way to address it is to ensure experts can reach isolated communities.

FSC continues to call for stronger support systems and improved access to services to combat GBV across Western Province.

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Australia’s PALM touches thousands here

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

WITH 10,000 Solomon Islanders already part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, Australia’s High Commissioner Rod Hilton says the scheme’s legacy lies in the lives changed and communities that have been strengthened.

“This is not simply for work, but this milestone represents changes in life, support from families and community growing stronger and further demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together,” said Hilton.

Speaking at a pre-departure briefing held yesterday for a new group of departing workers, Hilton thanked the government and the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) for establishing transparent and recruitment systems that align well with the country’s development goals.

Hilton said this approach has helped LMU build a strong reputation for Solomon Islands PALM workers.

“It’s a big reason why many Australian employers are choosing to return and recruit more workers from Solomon Islands,” he said.

The High Commissioner also expressed his hope that more Solomon Islanders will have the opportunity to participate in the scheme in the future.

“I’ve met many workers whose lives have been improved through this programme. It doesn’t just support one person; it supports an entire community. I believe many of you will go on to create your own success stories and bring those successes back home,” said Hilton.

He concluded by reaffirming Australia’s continued support for the PALM scheme and the workers taking part in it.

“Australia is proud to support you and we thank you for being part of this journey,” he concluded.

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Prime Minister launches theme and logo for 54th Pacific Islands forum leaders meeting

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, officially launched the theme and logo for the upcoming 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 setting the stage for one of the region’s most significant diplomatic gatherings.

The launch commenced at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Panatina Grounds, as part of the ongoing National Trade Fair.

The forum, scheduled to take place in Honiara from 8th to 12th September 2025, will bring together leaders from across the Pacific region to address shared challenges and strengthen regional cooperation.

During the launch, Manele unveiled the official theme for the summit: “Iumi together, act now for an integrated Blue Pacific Continent.”

The theme emphasizes unity and immediate action in advancing regional integration and safeguarding the Pacific’s oceanic and cultural heritage.

Also revealed was the official logo for the forum, designed by local artist Philip Tapuika, whose work was selected from among 45 entries.

In recognition of his contribution, Mr Tapuika was awarded a $10,000 cash prize and a certificate of recognition, presented personally by Prime Minister Manele.

“The theme and logo reflect our collective aspirations as Pacific peoples. It is a call for solidarity and meaningful action towards a sustainable, secure and united Pacific,” Manele said during the ceremony.

Preparations for the September forum are now in full swing, with Honiara expected to host a wide range of high-level meetings, cultural showcases and regional dialogues during the event.

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Man convicted for raping and assaulting girlfriend

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The High Court has convicted a 24-year-old man for assaulting and raping his girlfriend twice at his house in Honiara in October 2023.

On Tuesday this week, July 8, Judge John Keniapisia delivered the judgement.

In delivering judgment, court was satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant had penial sexual intercourse with the complainant twice without her consent.

This amounted to rape, as charged in counts 2 and 3.

Court convicted the defendant of two counts of rape and one count of common assault, based on his guilty plea.

On March 11, 2025, court arraigned the defendant, which he pleaded guilty to the common assault charge and not guilty to the two counts of rape.

Trial proceeded and prosecution produced evidence by calling the complainant and her aunt as the crown witnesses and tendered exhibits by consent.

Defense chose to remain silent without calling any witnesses and proceeded on to closing submission.

Court heard around 10pm on October 28, 2023, the defendant went to the complainant’s house, assaulted her and took her away in a forceful and threatening manner to his house, after he punched her face.

At the defendant’s house in his master bedroom, the defendant beat the complainant up with his right-hand, and whipped her with an electric red cable.

He also showed a knife twice and threatened that she would be cut with the knife.

Later, he forcefully had sexual intercourse with the complainant twice without her consent.

The complainant was detained, imprisoned and held hostage from October 28 to 29, when she was finally allowed to leave.

She returned October 31 to her house and rested for a week to recover before seeking medical treatment at the National Reference Hospital.

Court has adjourned the next hearing for September 1, 2025 for sentencing submissions from counsels.

Georgina Oroi and Fransica Luza are prosecuting and Ben Alasia act for the defendant.

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MCILI undergoes reform programmes

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Riley Mesepitu, Permanent Secretary (PS) for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), said the ministry is undergoing reform programmes.

He made the announcement of major and key reform programmes during the recent National Trade Fair.

Mesepitu said these reforms are aligned with the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) policy and the functions of the ministry.

The Permanent Secretary pointed out that one reform they are currently working on is the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Bill.

He said the bill aims to help enhance small and medium-sized enterprises and is now in its third draft and almost ready for cabinet.

Mesepitu noted that the ministry is also reviewing the Corporate Society Act; a tool that would help communities, youth groups, women and tribes to form a business entity under the act.

In addition, he said another reform under the ministry’s review is the Consumer Protection Act, an act to protect the rights of consumers in trade and consumption in the economy.

According to Mesepitu, other major reforms are; the Weights and Measures Act and Regulations, review of the Trade Dispute panel, Charitable Act, review of the Company’s Act, Labour Act, Immigration Act, the Refugees & Determination Bill and Human trafficking and People’s smuggling bill.

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SI delegation returns from successful mission to Australia

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) and Correctional Services of Solomon Islands (CSSI) have recently returned from a successful official mission to Australia.

According to the Ministry of Police, the delegation participated in key engagements which aims to strengthen Solomon Islands’ correctional and parole systems.

The delegation led by the Permanent Secretary of MPNSCS, Karen Galokale and the Commissioner of CSSI, Mactus Forau attended the 18th Reintegration Puzzle Conference in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, Northern Territory, from June 25-26, 2025.

Also, part of the delegation were the Acting Assistant Commissioner for Policy and Planning, the Director of Programs, the Officer-in-Charge of the Parole Board and a representative from the Ministry of Women, Youth and Family Affairs (MWYCFA).

This conference is said to have brought together regional and international experts to discuss offender rehabilitation, parole reintegration and community-based supervision models.

The purpose of the visit as stated by the ministry was to;

– Strengthen collaboration under the Australian Government’s Law and Justice Development Program, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

– Gain insights into Parole Board operations, including sentencing practices, parole supervision and community-based sentencing options.

– Examine low-security rehabilitation models, with a particular focus on the Helena Jones Centre, a female-focused correctional facility in Queensland.

MPNSCS mentioned that prior to the conference, the delegation visited the Queensland Correctional Services (QCS) Headquarters in Brisbane on June 23.

This visit included presentations on sentencing and remand options, parole board operations, and community-based supervision.

“A guided tour of the Helena Jones Centre provided practical insight into gender-responsive rehabilitation approaches for low-risk women offenders,” said MPNSCS.

Permanent Secretary of MPNSCS, Karen Galokale, highlighting the importance of the visit expressed that the experience has been both enriching and timely as we continue to develop policy and institutional frameworks to support a more rehabilitative, community-focused correctional system in Solomon Islands.

“The knowledge and partnerships gained from this visit will directly contribute to the advancement of parole reforms and reintegration programs under CSSI,” she added.

The Ministry of Police and CSSI appreciates DFAT and Queensland Correctional Services for their ongoing support and commitment towards strengthening justice sector collaboration in the Pacific region.

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