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Man denies armed robbery on couple

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

A man has pleaded not guilty to charges of armed robbery.

Samson Damisulia is being accused of taking part in the armed robbery incident on a couple at Panatina Ridge on September 7 this year.

The couple are Solomon Islands citizens of Korean origins, husband aged 62 and wife, 59.

Due to Damisulia’s plea, prosecution sought an adjournment from the court to allow it time to sort out documents for the pre-trial conference, which is set to follow.

Court granted the application setting January 11 as the date prosecution and defence return to court to carry out the oral pre-trial conference on the case.

Allegations say on September 7, 2023 the couple were sleeping in their home at Panatina Ridge, east of Honiara. Between 2 and 3am the first complainant was awoken following popped up message via his mobile phone from his son from Korea. Whilst reading the message he heard noises coming from their living room, he thought it was his wife. They were sleeping in separate rooms.

His bedroom door was open, and through it he saw two unknown men walking around in their living room.

He approached the two intruders and was struck with an object rendering him unconscious.

The wife heard the noises and came out. She too was attacked, receiving wounds to the right side of her head.

They called for help but neighbours were reportedly too scared to come and help.

The two men fled the scene with three mobile phones and $1200 cash.

The wife assisted her husband inside their car to the National Referral Hospital. The matter was reported to the police later that morning.

The defendant had reportedly escaped to his home province Malaita after the incident but was arrested on September 15 and escorted back to Honiara on September 17.

DPP appears for the Crown and PSO appears for Defendant.

First micro insurance product here 

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

By Indy Maealasia

THE country’s first ever Bundled Microinsurance product could just be the answer to providing an affordable financial security for Solomon Islanders.       

Insurance Agent, Solinsure is piloting the product that has a total benefit payout of $90,000 which includes Funeral-$9,000, Term Life-$27,000, Personal Accident-$27,000, and Fire on Dwelling-$27,000.

“The product aims to offer protection and peace of mind to those that might not have the financial capability to meet the expenses and the swift recovery from the event of a loss covered under the product,” Solinsure General Manager Atu Raico said.

Apart from primarily targeting low-income earners, it is also an excellent opportunity for employers, such as businesses and government who value their staff’s welfare to consider buying this product.

Raico further explained that to sign up for the product, interested customers must come in groups.

“People can sign-up for this product if they come in groups like social clubs, families, religious bodies, companies with a minimum of 10 individuals and above in a group,” he explained.

Unlike normal insurance products currently offered by insurance companies and are usually expensive, this product is affordable for the ordinary individual.

Customers can pay as little as $40 premium weekly or $2080 annual payment.

 “It is very important for ordinary people to understand that disasters happen every time and we are so exposed to it daily. The question is, how we protect ourselves and our families from the impact of a disaster or risks that we face?” he said.

FIJICARE insurance Company launched the product in Fiji and was proven to be a success among ordinary Fijians.

Seeing the similarity both countries share and the absent of micro insurance products in Solomon Islands, Solinsure took up the opportunity.   

“We felt that this product will have a huge potential to help Solomon Islanders in dealing with the unplanned death of a loved one. No other insurance company offers this product or a similar product aimed at helping low-income earners,” he said.

However, one of the challenges the agent has faced is the general lack of the concept of insurance.

 “The lack of awareness and understanding on how insurance works, the importance of insurance and the benefit it offers is an ongoing challenge, but we believe that our awareness campaigns with the teachers’ farmers, churches and so on, is beginning to create awareness,” Raico added.  

MP urges government intervention on public service wages and minimum wage, advocates for improved work conditions

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Claudius Tei'ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency. Photo supplied.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

Claudius Tei’ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency, fervently called on the government to address critical issues surrounding the public service salary structure and urged for an increase in the minimum wage.

Tei’ifi emphasised the need for fair and competitive compensation for public service employees, underscoring that the current salary structure does not adequately reflect the essential role these individuals play in maintaining the efficiency of government services.

He urged for a comprehensive review of the salary framework, emphasizing its urgency to align with the escalating cost of living and inflation rates.

Passionately advocating for an elevation of the minimum wage, Tei’ifi argued that such an increase would not only enhance the standard of living for the nation’s workforce but also contribute to overall economic growth by stimulating consumer spending.

He pointed to economic indicators and stressed the necessity for a more inclusive and equitable society.

Moreover, Tei’ifi drew attention to the high unemployment rate, noting that 15% of the population is formally employed.

He urged the government to enforce improved work conditions for all workers, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in their respective employments.

Additionally, he called for protective measures against exploitation and abuse in workplaces, suggesting the creation of schemes, services, and conditions conducive to an inclusive working environment.

Tei’ifi proposed the establishment of a work institute that provides training in customer service, sales, marketing, and other essential skills.

He recommended that the government use its grants to subsidize the costs of these training services, creating institutions dedicated to enhancing public skills and employability.

In a forward-looking stance, Tei’ifi stressed the importance of government innovation, particularly in the current economic climate marked by uncertainties and challenges, including the aftermath of the November 2021 riots.

He emphasized the need for strategic measures that contribute to the improvement of people’s well-being while propelling the nation forward.

As this urgent call for government action resonates during a critical time of economic challenges and the lingering impacts of the global pandemic and the November 2021 riots, citizens eagerly await the government’s response to Tei’ifi’s compelling proposals for the betterment of the workforce and the nation at large.

Tanangada lauds PM Sogavare’s leadership, thanks Opposition Leader for oversight role

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0
Minister of Education and Human Resources Development

BY NED GAGAHE

Minister for Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) Lanelle Tanangada has praised the leadership of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Leader of Official Opposition for their outstanding leadership.

Speaking during the Sine-Die Motion in Parliament last week, Minister Tanangada said Prime Minister Sogavare deserves great recognition for his outstanding leadership.

Tanangada said under the able leadership of Prime Minister the country has made historical strides whereby political stability is evident and the stability has come about due to the strength and unity of elected leaders of the DCGA government and their commitment to build this nation.

“Sir, I would also want to thank the Hon. Prime Minister for his great leadership. And I like how Solomon Islander a true son of North Malaita perfectly describes our Honorable Prime Minister in his article in The Island Sun on 2nd December 2023.

“And allow me to quote “lest we forget, among other debatable issues, Solomon’s history, will remember this martial art star, instructor, musician, church leader and politician from Choiseul province as intelligent, outstanding, forward looking, dynamic change maker, brave and steadfast.”

“Sir, the Hon. Prime Minister mentioned in his opening debate to this motion, that he was the most hated Prime Minister, swore at, his life was at risk with his family at times, even threatened to death.

“But I would like to say that to the eyes of a true Solomon Islander, a patriotic Solomon Islander, one who understands his or her culture and customs, we should add four times accord great respect for anyone amongst us who is a leader.

“My Hon. Prime Minister deserves that great recognition for his outstanding leadership. And let me echo that Solomon Islands through the leadership of the honorable Prime Minister, and with the support of the committed members of parliament in the DCGA government, Solomon Islands has made historical strides whereby political stability is evident, and that stability has come about due to the strength and unity of elected leaders of the DCGA and their commitment to build this nation.

Acknowledging the oversight role of the Opposition Leader Mathew Wale and the Opposition group, Minister Tanangada said, “Thank you, for ensuring that the government delivers according to its policies, and that you have played your oversight role dutifully, more specifically in the due diligence of scrutinizing the bills and reports that are tabled in Parliament.

“Though many times it means taking risk, but always protect the interests of this beloved nation. Mr. Speaker, Sir, let me thank the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Members of Parliament in the Opposition bench.

“Thank you, Honorable Leader of Opposition, for always supporting women in leadership and seeing the potential that women have to work with men for a common good.

“Sir, I could join other honorable members of this house to sincerely thank the Honorable Leader of the Independent and Members of Parliament on the Independent bench for the work you have done in supporting the government in your votes where your people’s voice must be heard.” Minister Tanangada said.

Auki police raids kwaso makers at Fiu

Written by
Samie Waikori
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PPC Malaita, superintendent Lesley Kili.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

AUKI police have raided a kwaso production site at Fiu village in the suburb of Auki town, Tuesday this week.

The raid was made possible through the support of Fiu community where a substantial amount of kwaso products was confiscated.

PPC Malaita, superintendent Lesley Kili said yesterday the raid was conducted on the afternoon of Tuesday after they were tipped-off by members of the community.

He said the raid was carried out and unfortunately the suspect escaped with the cooking apparatus whilst police confiscated kwaso products worth around $2,000.

Kili said although the suspect has evaded arrest, police have gathered all his details and will continue to follow-up until his arrest.

He warned that the raid is a caution to whosoever is brewing and producing kwaso wherever in and around Auki town.

Kili said a number of kwaso hotspots is known in and around Auki and they will get there in a matter of time.

He also called on communities to take-up similar initiative to what Fiu community did by working together with police to combat crimes in communities.

Kili said combating of crimes should be everyone’s business and one way to combat it is by working together with the police.

He said this will ensure all homes and communities are peaceful, harmony and safe from illegal activities that only brings negative atmospheres in the community.

Tei’ifi advocates support and cooperation for Bina Harbour development project

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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0
Claudius Tei'ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency. Photo supplied.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

Claudius Tei’ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency, is urging comprehensive support for resource owners as they prepare to participate in the proposed Bina Harbour development project, a significant initiative set to take place in Malaita Province.

Tei’ifi emphasised the importance of providing substantial support to resource owners in their preparations for involvement in the project.

He stressed that as the relevant Ministry and various agencies proceed with the technical paperwork for project development, it is crucial to ensure resource owners receive assistance and are not left to navigate the complexities on their own.

“In carrying out the development of the different technical paperwork by the relevant Ministry and different agencies that are involved in the project, I request that adequate support must be rendered to the resource owners in their preparation to be part of this project development. Preparation by the resource owners must be supported. They should not be left alone to sort themselves,” said Tei’ifi.

Additionally, Tei’ifi appealed to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and particularly the Provincial police in Auki to be vigilant and responsive in addressing potential criminal activities that may attempt to disrupt project activities.

“We do not want to see the actions of a few selfish individuals disturb the program and project activities on the ground. On that, I call upon my good people of West Kwaio, especially those living around the Bina Harbour area, to respect our laws and those working on the project,” he emphasized.

Tei’ifi underscored the importance of resolving grievances through proper channels rather than resorting to unlawful actions.

“We are people of culture, where respect is the cornerstone of our culture and heritage. So I call upon my good people to refrain from causing disturbances that will only ruin your character and good standing in our communities,” he added.

As the Bina Harbour development project progresses, Tei’ifi’s call for support, cooperation, and adherence to the law echoes the need for a collaborative effort to ensure the success and smooth implementation of this vital initiative in West Kwaio Constituency and the broader Malaita Province.

Court grants variation in case against trio accused of armed robbery

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against three men accused of armed robbery has had a variation granted to one of them.

It was mentioned in court for a bail variation regarding Hudson Susumae, one of the three accused, and court granted the bail variation application.

February 2, 2024 has been set as the first mention date for Mr Susumae.

Dickson Fito’o, Sio Wale and Susuamae were each charged with one count of armed robbery.

They have pleaded not guilty, and their trial is set to begin next year.

The defence counsels submitted to the court the bail variation application for his client Susuamae. After court looked through the bail variation application, presiding Chief Magistrate Emma Garo granted the application to allow Susuamae to return to his home village for the Christmas and New Year holiday.

Court extended bail for Susuamae.

It was alleged in the early hours on January 20, 2023 the trio entered the Holiday Resort Motel armed with bush knives.

One of the defendants also wounded a victim who is a Chinese national. The men then allegedly escaped with $100,000 including Chinese currency notes.

Police have recovered a hand bag during the arrest of the three defendants but a huge portion of the money is yet to be recovered.

Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Officer appears for the Defendants.

BLACK MARKET CRACKDOWN

Written by
Admin
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0

Chinese embassy urged to address alleged illegal business operations

George Kosui, former permanent secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour, and Immigration, has called on the Chinese Embassy in Honiara to assist responsible authorities in addressing alleged illegal business activities by the owner of ZLS shop, Xie Xinbin.

In a letter dated 21 December 2023 to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ambassador, Kosui claimed that Xie is allegedly operating a cartel for the distribution of goods in the country.

His assertions are based on a thorough online check and consultations with various authorities, including Company Haus, Inland Revenue Division, Guadalcanal Province, and Honiara City Council.

According to Kosui’s findings, ZLS has not registered with the Company Haus, rendering its operations illegal in the country.

The former permanent secretary highlighted concerns about the lack of proper identification for the company, with closed storage rooms, and limited accessibility for customers.

Additionally, the four full-time workers and four casual workers employed by ZLS are reportedly not registered with the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF).

Kosui’s investigation also revealed that several Chinese nationals arrived in the country on November 10, 2023, purportedly to work as unskilled labourers and subsequently establish shops to expand an alleged illegal distribution cartel and syndicate.

He alleged that ZLS is involved in distributing goods to retail shops, with proceeds sent to the owner, Xie, in China.

Money transfers are claimed to be conducted through other shops as part of this arrangement.

In his letter, Kosui expressed concern about potential anti-Chinese sentiments, urging the Chinese Embassy to take appropriate actions to address the issue and ensure accountability for those violating the country’s laws.

He identified an individual named Lanny as the accountant and advisor in these alleged illegal activities.

“This letter is submitted to your office to take appropriate actions to address this issue so that we don’t have any other things which might ignite anti-Chinese feelings against genuine PRC citizens doing business in the Solomon Islands as investors,” stated Kosui.

Kosui highlighted that responsible authorities, including Company Haus, Inland Revenue Division, Solomon Islands Financial Intelligence Unit, Solomon Islands National Provident Fund, Guadalcanal Province, Honiara City Council, and Solomon Islands Institute of Accountants, have been informed of this alleged illegal business activity.

As of press time, attempts to contact ZLS shop and the Chinese Embassy were unsuccessful.

The matter remains a subject of ongoing investigation and public interest.

Police remind public on security during festive season

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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0

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force issues a stern warning to the public, particularly in Honiara, urging them to be vigilant and prioritize the security of their valuable items.

Thieves and burglars tend to exploit the festive season, making it crucial for residents to take preventive measures.

Police said as always, an experience during festive seasons, the unfortunate trend of home robberies and break-ins becomes an all-too-common experience for residents in Honiara. In response to this, the police are reminding the public of practical steps they can take to safeguard their belongings.

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force assures the community that they will be actively working over the Christmas period to ensure the safety of individuals and their families.

However, they emphasize the importance of collaboration from the public to enhance overall security and residents are encouraged to always keep valuable items in inside pockets of clothing or bags and be mindful of their surrounding while out shopping.

Police also warned vehicle owners not to leave their bags of valuable items in their vehicle while out shopping and always lock vehicles properly.

ENDS///

Riot case adjourned

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Judgment into case of a woman accused of behaving in a riotous manner and stealing from the Tobacco Company Limited has been adjourned.

It was adjourned to December 27 for judgement to be delivered.

Joy Hamui is charged with one count of behave in riotous manner and one count of simple larceny and pleaded not guilty to both counts. Trial was conducted last month November 6, 2023.

Yesterday Ms Hamui appeared in court for her judgment however, the presiding magistrate was absent. Thus, her matter was adjourned.

Bail was extended for the defendant.

Court heard that during the riot in November 2021, Hamui was assembly with others in a riotous manner to enter the gate of the Solomon Island Tobacco Company.

She and others entered the gate into the office and took cartons and sleeves of tobacco products from the Solomon Islands Tobacco Company Limited.

The manner was reported to the police and Hamui was arrested and charged accordingly.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appear for the defendants.

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