BY MELVILLE TITIULU
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Ministry of Police National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSC) organized a welcome dinner for Solomon Islands RSIPF SWAT Team, who participated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) SWAT Challenge in Dubai from 7 to 11 February 2026.
In a statement on Thursday 19th February, RSIPF said the dinner was organized to formally thank the RSIPF SWAT Team members for their participation with other countries around the world representing the Solomon Islands.
The CPLT Commissioner and some members from the Chinese embassy in Honiara together with the RSIPF executive attended the occasion.
RSIPF Acting Commissioner, Mr. Mathias Lenialu, during the welcome dinner, said they come together not just to welcome and thank the officers who participated in the Dubai SWAT Challenge, but to also celebrate a milestone in the history of the RSIPF.
Acting Commissioner Lenialu reiterating the significance of the event said it is the first time the Solomon Islands flag has been raised at the AI Ruwayyah Training Facility in Dubai, standing alongside the elite tactical units of 48 nations.
He pointed out that the RSIPF officers have competed against teams with decades of experience and world-class facilities with specialized equipment.
He took the opportunity to remind them of their endurance and discipline.
“You face heat, the intensity of the tower challenge, and the high-pressure stakes of the obstacle course. You did not just participate; you persevered and finished every discipline. Your performance showed the world that Solomon Islands possesses the grit, the discipline, and the heart to stand on the world stage,” he said.
Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) Permanent Secretary, Karen Galokale, on behalf of the Minister of Police also spoke on the achievement of the RSIPF SWAT team’s participation at the SWAT Challenge in Dubai, UAE.
She said they are gathered not merely for dinner but to celebrate a historic milestone for our country as this is the first time that the country has ever participated in one of the most demanding and high-level international SWAT competitions in the world.
“Competing alongside 109 elite tactical teams from countries with long established and advanced SWAT capabilities, our team proudly participated.
“Achieving a ranking of 89th out of a total of 109 teams is an achievement that should not go unnoticed, particularly when it’s the first time for us to compete at that international level.
“As a small island nation and as the first country in the Pacific region to establish a SWAT capability—this is a remarkable and historic achievement. It represents courage, commitment, discipline, and the willingness to step onto the world stage,” she said.
At the banquet, Galokale also took time to formally convey the heartfelt congratulations of the Prime Minister, who was briefed on their participation and performance for successfully representing our nation at this global event.
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