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Another mining operation lands in Isabel

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

ANOTHER mining operation has arrived in Isabel Province, with activities now shifting towards the Hograno area.

This latest development brings the total number of mining operations in Isabel to four, following the closure of the Suma mining operation.

Reports reaching Island Sun confirm that a ship loaded with heavy equipment was sighted sailing past Lelegia Village enroute to Poku, where the new operation is expected to commence.

Multiple sources from nearby communities also confirmed that mining equipment has landed at Poku, near Koisisi and Fanavi villages.

“There are 10 dump trucks, two Hilux vehicles and 20,000 litres of fuel onboard the ship,” one source told Island Sun yesterday.

Landowners of Poku have been engaged in a massive logging operation since early 2017 and now operation has been upgraded to mining.

It is still too early to confirm the name of the company behind the operation.

However, records from the Ministry of Mines and Energy show that four active mining licences have been endorsed for operations in Isabel Province.

The companies listed include Jin Ding Resource PTY Limited, South Pacific Mining Company Limited, Solomon Islands Resource Company Limited and Pacific Nickel Mines Kolosori Limited.

According to official records, there are currently two active mining licences and two active prospecting licences in Isabel Province.

One mining licence permits the extraction of nickel, while the other is for gold extraction. The two active prospecting licences are both for nickel exploration.

More details are expected to emerge as the operation rolls out in the coming days.

While the mining operation will provide job opportunities for locals and also contribute to the national economy, communities fear that the impact will be devastating.

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Defence to file application for no case to answer for armed robbery case

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The trial of two defendants charged with armed robbery with possession of firearm and ammunition which took place on Monday, March 2 and concluded on Tuesday, March 3 is awaiting defence to file an application for “no case to answer” due to insufficient evidence.

A “no case to answer” is filed by defence when a trial ends, if they feel that evidence provided by prosecution witnesses is insufficient to prove the elements of the charges made against the two defendants.

The defendants Chris Yambeyabbi, a PNG National and Eddie Maki, a Solomon Islander were both charged with armed robbery Contrary to Section 293 (1) (a) of the Penal Code, to be read with section 21 (a) of the same Act.

Chris Yambeyabbi is separately charged with possession of firearm and ammunition contrary to section 5 (2) (a) of the Firearm and Ammunition Act.

Both were allegedly involved in an armed robbery at the KGVI USP complex in East Honiara on December 23, 2022.

It is alleged that Chris and Eddie entered the China Harbour engineering department office and took valuable items worth $11,000 SBD and escaped.

The two were also alleged to have threatened a Bangladesh national who was there at the time with a homemade pistol.

The trial was heard before Principal Magistrate Mrs Hilly Elma Veenah Rizu at the Honiara Central Magistrate Court.

On Monday, the court heard whether or not the defendants robbed the complainant, Mr Su Sem on December 23, 2022.

On the following day, (Tuesday, March 3), the court heard whether or not the defendant, Mr Chris Yambeyabbi, on January 10 2023, at Burns Creek, was in possession of a firearm without having a firearm license at the time.

During the trial, prosecution called in three key witnesses to help prove its case.

Since one of the defendants is a PNG national, an interpreter, Mrs Lona Mareko, was called on oath to translate to the court and witness both in English, Pidgin and Tok Pidgin.

Paul Iromea, a civilian was called in on Monday, March 2, as Prosecution Witness 1 (PW1) and he gave recognition evidence in court based on CCTV footage of the day in question.

PW2 is Police constable Thomas Puahanikeni who gave evidence as to how his team of investigators came to find the homemade pistol.

PW2 was cross examined. Defence counsel put it to him that the place of raid was not even Yambeyabbi’s house.

The house in fact, belongs to one, Paul Pusau – to which PW2 confirmed. 

PW3 is Mr. Philip Dagi, the inspector who examined the firearm on February 27, 2023 at the RSIPF Armory at Rove.

In cross examination, PW3 was questioned as to why he did not do a test fire to confirm whether or not the homemade gun was able to discharge shots.

In further cross examination, defence counsel put it to PW3 that none of his qualifications relates to improvised homemade weapons, only for manufactured weapons and that there was no DNA and finger printing examination done. PW3 after inspection did not prepare a scientific ballistic report to confirm.

At the conclusion of trial yesterday, defence counsel informed court of his intentions to make an application for a no-case to answer due to insufficient evidence for both charges.

The court asked for a proposed date and both parties agreed for Friday.

So, the matter has been adjourned for Friday, March 6 at 9:30am for the court to hear the no-case to answer application.

In the meantime, court has directed that defence file submission by 1pm on the Thursday March 5 and serve the prosecution as soon as possible with a filed copy.

Prosecution has also been directed by court to file submissions on March 6, at 9am.

Court also ordered bail extension for Eddie Maki and remand of warrant was also extended for Chris Yambeyabi.

Chris Yambeyabi’s translator was also asked to avail herself as the court will need her in attendance as well on Friday.

Jeremy Oiofa and Edward Roxley from the Director of Public Prosecutions are both prosecuting the case.

Mr. Pukera, Senior Defence Counsel from the Public Solicitors Office represents Chris Yambeyabi and Mrs Silas Senior Defence Counsel from the Public Solicitors Office represents Eddie Maki.

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Women and girls in Western province lead construction of youth hub

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Women and girls of Valapata community, Vella la Vella Island in Western Province are taking the lead in the construction of a new Youth Hub Centre, showing the growing role of women in leadership and decision-making.

A statement from David Lelokana, said the SPC PPAC (Pacific People Advancing Change) Phase 7 funded project brought together mothers, young women, and girls who are actively involved in planning, coordination, fundraising, and mobilizing community support.

“Their leadership has challenged traditional perceptions and highlighted the important contributions of women to local development initiatives,” the statement said.

Mr Jesse Lelokana emphasised that this initiative has empowered women and girls to take on a leadership role in implementing activities which include mobilizing community members to move the project forward.

He said their active involvement has strengthened unity and cooperation within the community.

“This project is not only about building a center. It is about building confidence, leadership, and opportunities for our young people, especially our girls,” Lelokana said.

Mrs Andelin Lelokana highlighted that the women and girls have also taken on the responsibility to manage key logistical tasks such as coordinating the milling of timber and organizing the transportation of materials to the project site.

She said their active involvement in these practical aspects of construction demonstrates their capability, commitment, and determination to see the project succeed.

The statement said the province’s Youth Hub Centre is expected to serve as a safe, inclusive space for youth programs, leadership training, church activities, and skills-development initiatives.

“It aims to promote positive engagement and create opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to their community,” the statement said.

Mr Jesse Lelokana hopes that the project will be officially launched by the end of March 2026, marking a significant milestone for the community.

“The initiative stands as a strong example of how empowering women and girls can drive sustainable development and strengthen the social fabric of communities across the Solomon Islands,” the statement said.

Photo credit: David Lelokana

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PRC-aided Auki Road project progressing well

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The PRC-funded Auki Road Network Rehabilitation project in Malaita Province is making progress. 

Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) in a statement said the project contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is preparing for the asphalt sealing phase.

CCECC is currently focused on drainage and ditching, with the installation of heavy-duty, concrete-lined drainage systems across the 9.2 km road network.

Ongoing drainage installation and road preparation at the Auki Road Project to ensure long-term durability and flood prevention, Photo-MID
Robust drainage systems being installed to ensure the Auki Road network withstands the elements for years to come, Photo-MID
In front of Auki’s BSP junction, Photo-MID

These reinforced ditches are designed to manage surface runoff and protect Auki’s town center and residential areas from erosion.

The CCECC team is also working on steel rebar loops, which will enhance the structural integrity of the road. These reinforcements will eventually integrate with new pedestrian footpaths and shoulder protection.

The project spans the main highway from Kilu’ufi Hospital to Kwaibala Bridge, as well as 16 feeder roads within Auki town.

One significant aspect of the project, as highlighted by Mr Mike Qaqara, Deputy Secretary of MID, is the relocation of utilities.

He noted that the Ministry and CCECC are collaborating with local utility service providers—Solomon Power, Solomon Water, and Solomon Telekom—to relocate water, power, and telephone lines.

These utility relocations are among the final tasks before the asphalt sealing begins. Once completed, the project will provide Auki with a durable, 50mm-thick asphalt pavement expected to last for the next 10–20 years.

Almost 200 locals from nearby communities were employed by CCECC, Photo-MID

The PRC-funded Auki Road project has also created employment opportunities, with around 200 Malaitans working alongside technical experts and gaining valuable skills in construction.

MID said this project reflects the government’s National Transport Infrastructure Plan 2017-2035.

Photo credit: MID

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Western Province Women’s Policy consultation ends successfully

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

CONSULTATIONS to review the Western Province Women Empowerment and Transformational Policy for Development 2018–2022 concluded successfully yesterday in Gizo.

In an interview with Island Sun, Principal Women Development Officer for Western Province, Mrs. Lisi Wong Binet, said the consultation process began last year and covered various communities across the province.

She said the next phase of consultation will involve Heads of Divisions within the provincial administration and Members of the Western Provincial Assembly.

Binet said the draft policy document will then undergo further review before the final document is presented to the Provincial Executive during the next Assembly meeting later this year.

“So, we have conducted consultations last year and today we have representatives from communities surrounding Gizo, church representatives, women’s groups and other stakeholders to have their final say on the draft policy.

“We’ve received constructive feedback from the participants that will help shape the policy,” she said.

While Binet acknowledges that the policy review had been long overdue she expressed gratitude for the support that enabled her department to finally complete the community consultation process.

She said the policy will play a vital role in guiding development programmes and activities for women in the province.

“This policy is very important when it comes to identifying the most needed programmes and activities that would support women development in Western Province.

“In short, this policy document outlines areas that need more support when it comes to women’s development,” Binet said.

Launched in July 2018, the Western Province Women Empowerment and Transformational Policy for Development (2018–2022) is a pioneering initiative of the Western Provincial Government designed to advance gender equality in the Solomon Islands.

The policy aims to foster economic, social and political empowerment by removing barriers to women’s participation in development and features eight strategic outcomes intended to transform livelihoods.

It has played a key role in the development of market infrastructure in Gizo, Noro, Munda and Seghe, and facilitated the establishment of a Family Support Centre in Gizo to assist victims of domestic violence.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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STILL DETERMINED

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Captain Samoa's Otete Kitiona and Solomon Islands head coach Daniel Barrett pose for a photo, Press conference and training sessions ahead of the FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifiers 2027, OFC Qualifiers, National Stadium, Honiara. Photo: Joshua Devenie / www.phototek.nz

Solomon Islands women’s national football team remains determined after 8-0 match with New Zealand Ferns

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands women’s national football team had a tough game with the heavily-fancied New Zealand Football Ferns in their second outing of the Oceania qualifiers with the Ferns winning the match with a 8-0 score.

Despite the defeat, the team remains determined after having played alongside experienced players.

Speaking after the match, head coach Daniel Barrett did not shy away from the reality of the result, describing the defeat as a reflection of the vast difference in professional standards between the two sides.

“Ah, it’s just a golfing class”, Barrett said candidly. “We’re talking about professional players that play in Europe. And our girls are from the Solomon Islands, so there’s a lot of difference in the way that girls are developed and prepared over time”.

The loss followed the day’s opening fixture which saw American Samoa edge Samoa 1–0, tightening the race behind tournament favorites New Zealand.

Despite the heavy scoreline, Barrett was quick to praise his players for their determination and resilience against one of Oceania’s strongest sides.

“They ran to the very end, tackled to the very end, fought to the very end. I think that deserves a lot of praise and a lot of credit”, he said. “Anyone here playing New Zealand is going to find it difficult”.

Barrett emphasized that the team’s refusal to give up reflected the character of the nation.

“They never gave up. They kept fighting to the very end because that’s the type of people Solomon people are. They never give up, they keep fighting, and they stuck together, more importantly”.

The coach also revealed that the national team is currently undergoing a transitional period, with several senior players nearing the end of their international careers.

“It’s no secret; we’re in a transition sort of period with the national team”. he explained. “A lot of our senior players, they’re not going to be here next World Cup campaign”.

Barrett, who is known for his development background in Australia, said the focus has already shifted towards grooming the next generation of players.

“You’ll see we’ve given young players an opportunity here… because we know that in time, we have to be able to replace these players with good young players”.

He acknowledged that fielding young, inexperienced players at this level naturally comes with mistakes, particularly under intense pressure from seasoned professional opponents.

“Young players are going to make mistakes, particularly under pressure. We need to give these young girls an opportunity to start to feel comfortable in international football. It’s part of development”.

 With one match remaining against Samoa, Barrett maintained that the team’s ambition remains unchanged.

“Every game we want to win, even tonight”, he said. “If we can bring the energy and effort that we brought tonight, I think we’ll do well in the Samoa game”.

He also expressed appreciation for the local supporters who turned out in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

“The people here have been fantastic by coming out and supporting the girls… if they can come out and support us for that last game, that’d be really good”.

Barrett dismissed suggestions that the team had regressed compared to previous campaigns, reiterating that all nations in the region are improving.

“All these nations now are trying to get better, and we’re trying to do the same as well. But this takes time”, he said.

While the 8–0 defeat serves as a stark reminder of the gap between Solomon Islands and Oceania’s powerhouse, the coach remains focused on long-term growth rather than short-term disappointment.

“We still try and win every game”, Barrett concluded. “But at the same time, we have to evaluate every single player and see if they’re improving as individuals — and are they players that we see we want involved with us in four years’ time?”

For now, the Solomon Islands women will regroup, refocus, and prepare for their final fixture — carrying lessons from a tough night against the region’s benchmark side.

Photo credit: SIFF

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New Zealand on top spot for round 3 qualifiers

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BY TONY IROGA

New Zealand is now moving on to the third stage of the qualifiers after beating Solomon Islands with a 8-0 victory at the National Stadium yesterday.

In yesterday’s face off, New Zealand continued to press relentlessly, and Foster’s shot was deflected into the net off Pia Vlok, giving Vlok her first goal for the Football Fans.

Milly Clegg added the final goal of the match, tapping in Lancaster’s precise cross to seal a comprehensive victory.

According to OFC, the result saw New Zealand maintain their dominance form in Oceania and now qualifies for Round 3 of the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Grace Jale opened the scoring for New Zealand in the second half, finishing a move with a powerful strike to add the fourth goal.

Just moments later, Hannah Blake volleyed in a perfectly timed cross from Lancaster to extend the lead further, with Solomon Islands scrambling in defence.

Blake then completed her hat-trick after rounding goalkeeper Kofela, showing her composure and finishing ability in front of goal.

The second half began with New Zealand continuing to dominate possession, but Solomon Islands showed great discipline and resilience in defence, frustrating the Football Ferns with organised blocking and timely clearances.

They were able to hold New Zealand at bay for a period, keeping the scoreline unchanged and giving themselves a brief respite.

New Zealand, gradually found more space as fatigue began to affect the Solomon Islands players, allowing the hosts to start breaking through the defensive lines more often.

New Zealand will face fellow undefeated team, American Samoa, on Thursday while Solomon Islands will take on Samoa on the same day.

Photo credit: Tony Iroga

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Pacific regional immigration directors attend Border Management System workshop in Brisbane

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Regional Directors of Immigration from Pacific Islands countries participated in a three-day Border Management System (BMS) Strategic Foundations workshop in Brisbane, Australia, from February 24-26, 2026.

A statement from Government Communications Unit (GCU) yesterday, said the workshop was funded by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and its aim was for participants to discuss shared objectives and opportunities for automated data sharing and the development of Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger National Record modules.

Countries represented at the workshop included the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and Vanuatu.

GCU said the workshop was led by Australian Department of Home Affairs Regional Director, Mr Jim Anderson who emphasised on the importance of regional collaboration in combating organised crime.

The workshop is said to have focused on challenges such as drug trafficking, cybersecurity threats, and digital borders and key outcomes included establishing a PIDC Information Technology Working Group to lead regional BMS developments and fighting organised crime.

GCU said Solomon Islands is strengthening its national border security, having rolled out the first phase of BMS with Australia and Papua New Guinea in which the Australian Government funded SBD$18M for the Immigration BMS roll-out.

The statement said an online electronic visa system will be introduced by mid-March 2026, and this will allow travelers to apply and pay for visas online.

“Travelers and tourists travelling to Solomon Islands will access visa applications and make online payments through an ANZ online visa payment for Solomon Islands visas.

“A technical working group will assess digitising entries and exits in Western and Choiseul Provinces in April 2026, aligning border security with the government’s National Security Strategy,” GCU said.

GCU said representing the Solomon Islands Government at this workshop was Acting Director of Immigration, Mr Chris Akosawa.

Photo credit: GCU

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CIPG supports amendment of Dangerous Drugs Act

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Central Islands Province (CIP), Kenneth Sagupari, fully supports the amendment to the Dangerous Drug Act 2025 (DDA), but is concerned over the penalties outlined, describing them as too lenient.

The amendment introduced by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), include life imprisonment and a fine of SBD $15 million for offenders. A hearing on the amendment, facilitated by the Bill and Legislative Committee (BLC) took place last month.

In an interview with this newspaper, Premier Sagupari emphasized that his government fully backs the amendment, highlighting the significant threat posed by dangerous drugs to the future of Solomon Islands.

“My government supports the amendment because the future of the Solomon Islands is at risk due to the growing issue of dangerous drugs,” he said.

Sagupari also voiced concerns about the need for advanced technology to better monitor drug-related activities at the country’s borders.

He pointed to the recent discovery of several narco-submarines in the country as a clear indicator of drug trafficking activity entering the country.

“These narco-subs are commonly used for smuggling drugs, and their discovery highlights the reality of drug-related activity passing through our borders,” he said.

The Premier further argued that the proposed penalty of SBD $15 million fine is insufficient, given the scale of profits generated by drug traffickers.

“I believe the SBD $15 million fine is too soft – far too soft for drug dealers or anyone involved in this illegal business.

“These individuals make millions from trafficking drugs, and even if they are caught, they can simply pay the fine and walk away, leaving our people vulnerable to the growing drug problem,” he said.

He also noted that the Solomon Islands’ small population makes the country particularly susceptible to the risks associated with dangerous drugs.

In terms of CIP, Sagupari said its close proximity to Honiara is a concern should there be possible spread of dangerous drugs.

“For example, copane drug is already prevalent in my province. Whether produced in the province or transported from Honiara, the ease of drug movement from the capital to the province is highly possible,” he added.

Given the gravity of the issue, Premier Sagupari calls for constitutional amendments to allow for capital punishment for those involved in the dangerous drug trade.

He believes that only through harsher measures will the country be able to effectively curb the drug problem.

“These measures are necessary if we want to send a clear message that the Solomon Islands has zero tolerance for dangerous drugs,” Sagupari said.

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Case of a man accused of intimidation and molestation adjourned

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has adjourned the matter of a man accused of three counts relating to intimidation and molestation charges yesterday.

The accused, Junior Paul Maenu (Pure) was charged with three counts of Intimidation and Molestation Contrary to section 231(1) of the Penal Code.

The matter was for mention yesterday, where the court was supposed to hear his plea – whether or not he pleads guilty to those 3 counts of charges.

Chief Principal Magistrate Ricky Lomea, in court yesterday asked Defence Counsel whether the defendant was in court or not.

Defence counsel Tukochi, informed court that he understands that the accused was supposed to be in court to make his plea, but his client was not in court so he sought for an adjournment.

Chief Principal Magistrate then asked the defence counsel to give reasons as to why he should allow an adjournment.

Mr. Tukochi informed court that that his client wasn’t feeling well to appear in court, because he was admitted for Asthma at the National Referral Hospital at the early hours of 4am, and was discharged at 7am yesterday.

Defence counsel informed court that he just received that confirmation via text message from his client. Thus, sought leave of the court for the matter to be adjourned to give ample time to speak with his client before his client can come to court to make his plea.

The matter was given a 7 days adjournment till 9 March at 9am for Mention.

The accused was excused of bail and hence, bail was extended.

The Chief Principal Magistrate then reminded the defence counsel that he must produce a medical report by or during the time the matter comes for mention on March 9 at 9am for plea.

It was alleged that the accused, Junior Paul Maenu (Pure) was at Maromaro market area, at Honiara on the 12th of November, 2025 where he intimidated three female persons namely; Salome Reuben, Elsie Gingari and Martha Pumai.

The particulars of the offence said that the accused intimidated them by possessing a pair of scissors and told them that they won’t be cooking there anymore and that he owned the place.

He then used a stone, throwing it at the Kaibar there before using an iron rod to chase the victims causing the fear and insecurity in them and they were lucky to escape him.

The accused was later arrested and taken to Naha Police station for questioning and was later charged.

The court is expected to hear the accused plea to these charges when the matter resumes on  March 9 at 9am for Mention.

PC Taromunia appears for the Police Prosecutions while Trevor Mark Tukochi, Senior Legal Officer from the Public Solicitors Office represents the accused.

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