BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
Chiefs and elders of Olepetu and Kuava communities in Western Province have taken a firm stand to restore law and order following two shocking murder cases that rocked the province last year and earlier this year.
Over the weekend, the communities officially launched their new bylaws in the presence of officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), marking what leaders describe as a new chapter for both villages.
Thirty men and women have been appointed to form the Crime Prevention Committee (CPC), which will be responsible for enforcing the bylaws.
The Olepetu and Kuava bylaw consists of 26 rules, covering offences ranging from minor nuisances to serious crimes such as arson and violence.
Chairperson of the Olepetu/Kuava CPC, Mr. Nelson Lekelalu, told Island Sun that Kuava had been at the centre of two murder cases, prompting leaders to act decisively to prevent further crimes.
“It’s time to fight back against crime for a better today and future. We want to erase the crimes that were painted and hanging over our community’s name.
“It is our commitment to ensure our children live in a peaceful environment,” he said.
Lekelalu said the committee will take the bylaws seriously, warning that anyone who breaches the rules will face penalties as stipulated.
Officer-in-Charge of Community Policing in Western Province, Sergeant Alick Alesena, described the launch as a milestone achievement for the communities.
“Over the years, our community has faced various law and order challenges, but today marks a very important and historical occasion for Olepetu and Kuava community.
“This occasion represents a major milestone and a significant achievement to promote peace, order and responsible living within our community,” he said.
Alesena acknowledged that police alone cannot effectively address all law-and-order issues across communities and that CPCs serve as the “eyes and ears” of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force at the community level.
He said the bylaws reflect shared responsibility and collective commitment to creating a safer and more orderly environment for residents of Kuava.
Acting Provincial Police Commander for Western Province, Superintendent Wilken Miriki, said the bylaws blend traditional values with the realities of modern living to ensure customs continue to guide communities away from unwanted activities.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter. We are placing a beacon – one that will guide us towards peaceful living, mutual respect and shared responsibility.
“This bylaw is a commitment we make to ourselves and to the future generation,” he said.
Miriki calls on community members to change their mindset and embrace positive change for a better future where people can live in peace and harmony.
He also acknowledged the chiefs, community leaders, women, youths and children for their commitment to the initiative and warned residents to respect CPC committee members at all times.
The launch signals a united effort by Olepetu and Kuava to reclaim their communities’ reputation and ensure lasting peace for future generations.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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