FIVE IN CUSTODY

Police arrest suspects in reported attempted abductions and snatchings in Honiara

BY NED GAGAHE

FIVE people are in police custody over the reported kidnappings and attempted abductions of children in Honiara, it is reported.

Deputy Commissioner National Security Ian Vaevaso confirmed this to Island Sun last night saying one was apprehended in the morning and four in the afternoon.

Mr Vaevaso could not comment on unconfirmed reports that a foreigner was among the four held in the afternoon.

The first person was brought in with a black caldina without a number plate while the four were taken with a white double cabin hilux.

A large crowd gathered outside the Central police station yesterday as news of the arrests spread throughout town.

Earlier this week, reports of suspicious activities caused a lot of fear and panic in Honiara.

Reports of attempted abductions in some areas in town led schools to send students home early yesterday, some resorting to calling parents to pick up their children in person.

Since mid-morning, parents hurried to schools to collect their children.

In a press conference yesterday, Deputy Commissioner Vaevaso called on public to remain calm as police are actively addressing the alleged abduction reports circulating.

He called on those with information to assist reporting any suspicious activities.

“We are asking the public and those with information to assist us in understanding the magnitude of this issue. Whist police is doing its work, we invite the members of the public to come forward with more information.

“Anything that is suspicious, especially the victims. We received reports that it happens everywhere in town. So, we want the victims to come forward to tell us what really happens so that we understand this issue.”

Vaevaso confirmed that despite numerous reports circulating on social media, only one case has been officially reported, with the Police.

He said they are conducting a thorough investigation. Other claims, including an alleged abduction at Tamlan School yesterday morning, Vaevaso said was false.

Vaevaso also clarified speculations that Police was involved.

“Such report will help us respond – Police is not part of this as speculated by some on social media platforms.

“Police are not tolerating these types of issues. This is not part of our work. Our work is to protect and safeguard our people.

“I must say that we are not taking this issue lightly this thing that are happening. We are not part of it, I want to make that very clear, we will take full cause of action to those involve in such kind of activities. That is what we will be doing now.

“In the meantime, we are calling on all citizens and the public to stay calm as police investigates this issue. I urge parents and public to take extra precautions amidst these rumors going around to ensure our children are safe from school to our homes. Do not let them to go out by themselves on streets,” Vaevaso said.

In response to concerns, Vaevaso emphasised police’s commitment to public safety.

“We have some strategies and we are working on it now, to ensure we are on the streets. We are ready to respond to any reports. We are alert 24/7 to ensure public safety is upheld. Our presence will be visible in the city, our intelligence and our teams are on the ground at the moment,” Vaevaso said.

Assistant Commissioner National Capital & Crime Prevention Simpson Pogeava encouraged schools and businesses to keep running but suggested they stay alert and take safety precautions.

He also asked the public to work with the police, share any information, and help keep the community safe.

Police patrols and visible presence will continue to ensure public safety.

According to DC Vaevaso this remains a top priority for the RSIPF, and regular updates will be provided through their Police Media Unit and another Media Press Conference.

Police encouraged families to report any missing persons or abductions to the Police immediately, so that appropriate action can be taken.