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Illegal gold trading case adjourned

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has adjourned a criminal case involving a man accused of illegal gold trading after the prosecuting counsel in carriage of the case file failed to appear in court.

Mr Xiao Yulin, 39, a Chinese national, was charged under sections 53(a) and 63 of the Mines and Minerals Act for allegedly engaging in unauthorised gold dealing and for allegedly obtaining a Business Certificate by false pretense under section 311 and section 41 of the Penal Code.

He was scheduled to enter his plea to that amended charge before Chief Magistrate Ricky Lomea yesterday.

The accused was in court yesterday with his defence lawyer. However, the prosecuting counsel in carriage of the case file was not in attendance at court yesterday, prompting an adjournment.

“The Prosecuting Counsel in carriage of the case file needs to attend at the next mention to properly assist the court before the defendant can take his plea’’, Chief Magistrate told the court.

Chief Magistrate Lomea subsequently granted an adjournment to May 11 at 9am, when the accused is expected to enter his plea.

In the meantime, police bail for Mr Xiao was extended till Monday.

Fraud Unit investigations revealed that the accused and a local associate, Mr William Salu, were illegally buying gold from illegal miners and panners from the Gold Ridge Mining site at the rate of $850 per gram with a signboard displaying ‘Buy Gold’ at Tenaru junction, Central Guadalcanal—an area not covered by the license, which is owned by a relative of Mr Salu.

Documents revealed Xiao was employed by Happy Inn Company, trading as “Fastina Gold Buyer” under a licence registered for Alligator Creek.

The accused continued to buy gold illegally without a gold dealer’s licence from November 7, 2025 to January 6, 2026 in the Tenaru area in Guadalcanal Province.

The Gold Dealer’s Licence is intended for Solomon Islands citizens only and is non-transferable.

Section 55 (1) b (iii) of the Mines and Minerals Act states that the Minister may issue a gold dealer’s license to any person who is over 21 years old and is a citizen of Solomon Islands.

Currently, issuance of licenses is suspended after the GRML notified the Ministry of Mines of non-issuance, following reports that licenses that were intended for local entrepreneurs were being exploited by Chinese gold buyers.

The offence of illegal gold dealing carries a maximum penalty of a $20,000 fine, five years’ imprisonment, or both. Whereas, the offence of False Pretense attracts an imprisonment of two years or with a fine or both fine and imprisonment.

Jeremy Oifa, acting on instructions from Steward Tonowane, represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, while Private Defence lawyer Mark Sina from Honiara Attorney at Law represents the accused.

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Man sentenced 2-years for damaging vehicle rear mirror and trespassing into a dwelling house

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Honiara Central Magistrate’s Court on Thursday sentenced a man convicted of malicious injury and criminal trespass to 2 years’ imprisonment.

Billy Buga, 35, of Fourou village, North Malaita, Malaita Province, was charged with two counts of charges.

The first count is in relation to malicious injuries contrary to section 326(1) of the Penal Code and carries a maximum penalty of two-years imprisonment.

The second count is in relation to Criminal Trespass contrary to section 189 (2) of the Penal Code. In this case, the trespassing into a dwelling house attracts a 1-year imprisonment maximum.

Principal Magistrate, Mrs Emily Zazariko Pakoa, presided over the matter when it came for sentencing judgment.

According to the crime statistic record, the defendant had already been imprisoned for 24 months and on previous separate occasions had been caught up with the law for 12 past offences. Thus, the defendant has a notable criminal history for reoffending and prior convictions.

The defendant was told in court that despite the advice given to him by past magistrates, he still turned a deaf ear to those advices.

Principal Magistrate, Mrs Pakoa, in addressing the defendant at the dock said: ‘’In the ideal world, people are subjected to change in just one or two experiences’’.

“When you come out of prison, please try to make good use of your strength and ability to make your community happy’’, she told the defendant in court.

She further told the defendant in pidgin that: “I do not want the community to call you a thief, I want your community to see you as a boss of a construction company or something highly of you in the future’’.

As to the first count, it was alleged that on April 26, 2025, between 9 am and 2 pm, the complainant saw the defendant walking towards his car before he kicked the right-side rear mirror of the complainant’s car, located on the driver’s side.

This caused the right-side rear mirror to break into pieces, with the damaged glass worth at $1,500. The court heard that the defendant did not pay compensation for the damaged property.

The complainant is Mr Ronald Konai of Darawarau village, Malaita province.

As to the second count of criminal trespass, the complainant is Melissa Amon, a native of Guadalcanal Province.

It was alleged that on July 20, 2025, at around 5 am, the defendant gained entry through Mrs Amon’s main door and tried to steal a phone.

The complainant’s son then grabbed the defendant, and with the help of his brother, they both managed to tie both hands and legs of the defendant and take the phone from him.

Irene Mae Bosokuru from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), prosecuted the matter, and Ms Tracey Taisi from the Public Solicitors Office represented the defendant.

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‘DEEPLY CONCERNED’

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King Charles sends sympathy message to TC Maila victims

BY NED GAGAHE

Britain’s monarch His Majesty King Charles III has conveyed his condolences and support to the people of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea following the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

In a message issued by Buckingham Palace on behalf of himself and Queen Camilla, King Charles said they were “deeply concerned” to learn of the destruction and loss suffered across the two Pacific nations.

“Our thoughts are with all those who have been so cruelly affected and we send our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives,” the King said.

He also praised the efforts of emergency responders, defense personnel, charity organisations and community members who have been assisting affected communities since the cyclone struck.

The King commended their “dedication and courage” in responding under difficult and hazardous conditions, particularly in remote areas impacted by the storm.

He further acknowledged the cooperation shown between Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and neighbouring Pacific countries during the disaster response and recovery efforts.

“It is most heartening to know that the strength of your already formidable resolve has been bolstered further by the collaboration and solidarity demonstrated between your nations, and with your Pacific neighbours,” the message read.

King Charles concluded by assuring both countries of the Royal Family’s continued prayers and sympathy as recovery efforts continue in the aftermath of the cyclone.

Photo: Supplied

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VITAL WIN

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Kings strike first in Auckland with crucial 2-1 victory

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands champions Solomon Kings FC have opened their OFC Pro League Challengers Group campaign in style after edging Tahiti United FC 2-1 in a tense clash at Erden Park Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand yesterday.

Backed by a passionate group of Solomon Islands supporters waving the national colours of blue, yellow and green while chanting “Go Kings Go”, the Kings held their nerve late in the match to secure a valuable three points in their push for a semi-final playoff spot.

Despite Tahiti United starting brightly, Solomon Kings gradually settled into the contest with attacking duo Jez Lofthouse and Sota Higashide causing problems for the Tahitian side throughout the first half.

The Kings created several promising chances after the 20-minute mark, with Lofthouse delivering dangerous crosses while Tahiti goalkeeper Jackson Gardner was forced into key saves to keep the match scoreless at halftime.

The breakthrough finally came immediately after the restart.

Rafa Le’ai bundled home from close range just seconds into the second half following a clever build-up involving Higashide and Lofthouse to give Solomon Kings a 1-0 lead.

Tahiti United responded strongly and thought they had equalised in the 62nd minute through Joseph Athale after a powerful strike from inside the area.

However, a VAR review ruled the goal out for offside after Franck Papaura was judged to have made contact with the ball while in an offside position.

The disallowed goal lifted the intensity of the contest as Tahiti United continued to press hard for an equaliser.

But with the Tahitian side pushing numbers forward, Solomon Kings struck again on the counterattack in the 83rd minute.

Lofthouse broke clear before calmly slotting home his fifth goal of the OFC Pro League campaign to extend the Kings’ lead to 2-0.

Tahiti United immediately answered back through Bradley Ruiz just a minute later to reduce the margin to 2-1 and set up a nervous finish.

The Solomon Kings defence, however, stood tall during five minutes of added time, clearing late pressure and denying Tahiti United a comeback.

The victory places Solomon Kings in a strong early position in the Challengers Group where every point could prove decisive in the race for a semi-final playoff berth.

According to OFC Media, Kings coach Samuel Garcia’s side showed composure under pressure and capitalised on their counterattacking opportunities at crucial moments.

Solomon Kings will now turn their attention to their next group match against Vanuatu FC on as they aim to continue their impressive run in Auckland.

Meanwhile, the second Challengers Group fixture scheduled after the Kings clash yesterday saw Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United FC take on Vanuatu United FC later in the day.

Photo: Supplied

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Bulk shop corporate open league round 8 concludes yesterday

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BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

The Bulk Shop Corporate Open League successfully completed its Round 8 matches yesterday at the Friendship Hall in East Honiara.

Teams from various companies and organisations battled through exciting fixtures as the competition continues to build momentum in the capital.

Players showcased determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the round, with supporters turning up to witness competitive and entertaining matches.

The league has continued to provide an avenue for working-class athletes and community teams to stay active, strengthen friendships, and promote healthy lifestyles through sport.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday, captain of DC Blue Birds Andrew Tora says he is pleased with his team’s performance after securing a 3-1 victory over PC Black Birds during Round 8 of the Bulk Shop Corporate Open League tournament yesterday.

“We are very happy with the result because the boys worked hard throughout the game and followed our game plan well,” Tora said.  

He added that teamwork, discipline, and communication on the court helped DC Blue Birds secure the convincing 3-1 victory against the strong PC Black Birds side.

Both PC Black Birds and DC Blue Birds are part of one team under the same Bulk Shop company, making the match a friendly but competitive encounter between fellow colleagues,” he said.

He said erven though they are under one company, once they step onto the court they compete strongly, but at the end of the day they remain one family,” the captain added.

The captain also acknowledged supporters and team management for their encouragement and support during the tournament.

Speaking to Island Sun after the match, the coach, Mr. Simon Gehi said he was pleased with the performance and commitment shown by the team throughout the game.

 “I am very happy with the boys’ performance because they played with discipline, teamwork, and confidence to secure the 3-1 win,” Gehi said.

Gehi described the match as a competitive but friendly contest, noting that both DC Blue Birds and PC Black Birds are teams under the same Bulk Shop company.

Mr. Gehi also thanks supporters and team management for standing behind the players during the competition, adding that the team will continue to work hard in the upcoming rounds of the tournament next week.

Round 8 of the Bulk Shop Corporate Open League concluded yesterday with several exciting matches played at Friendship Hall.

The Bulk Shop Corporate Open League continues to attract strong participation from company teams and community clubs, promoting unity, friendship, and healthy lifestyles through sport.

Organisers of the bulk shop thanks participating teams, officials, and supporters for their continued commitment to the competition, adding that the tournament continues to grow in popularity each round.

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Credit Corp renews backing for High School Boys 15s rugby

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) has welcomed renewed support from Credit Corporation SI Limited following the signing of a sponsorship agreement for the 2026 Credit Corp High School Boys 15s competition.

The sponsorship agreement was officially signed on Wednesday at Heritage Park, reaffirming Credit Corp’s commitment towards the development of youth rugby in the Solomon Islands.

According to information shared on Rakabi Solomons Facebook page, the sponsorship will support the ongoing staging of the High School Boys 15s competition this year.

SIRUF acknowledges the company’s continued partnership and thanks Credit Corp for its ongoing contribution to rugby development in the country.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Credit Corp representatives Alafina Katovai and Walter Waneroa, alongside SIRUF Chief Executive Officer Alivereti Mocelutu.

Information displayed on the official event poster revealed that Credit Corp has committed a total sponsorship of SI$30,000 towards the competition prizes, with SI$10,000 allocated for the winning team, SI$8,000 for second place, SI$6,000 for third place and SI$4,000 for fourth place, including consolation prizes.

Speaking through statements published on the promotional poster, SIRUF Vice President Development Moses Tepai thanked Credit Corp for its ongoing support.

“We warmly thank Credit Corp for their ongoing commitment to the High School Boys Rugby 15s competition,” Tepai stated.

He said the competition continues to grow, increasing from five participating teams last year to seven teams this season.

Credit Corp SI Ltd Country Manager Ronald Vikash also expressed pride in continuing the company’s support for school rugby.

“We are happy and proud to sponsor boys’ rugby once again,” Vikash said.

The 2026 Credit Corp High School Boys 15s competition officially kicked off with Koloale defeating St. Johns 23-15 in the opening match.

The Credit Corp High School Boys 15s competition is part of SIRUF’s ongoing effort to strengthen grassroots and school rugby development in the Solomon Islands with support from corporate partners and regional rugby development programmes.

Photo: Supplied

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SICCI and RSIPF strengthen cooperation on traffic and security

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation under their existing Memorandum of Understanding following a high-level roundtable discussion held at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara this week.

In its statement, SICCI said the meeting was led by SICCI Chairlady Ms Namoi Kaluae, Director Mr Steve Kapei, and CEO Mr James Dolarii, together with RSIPF Deputy Commissioner Mr Simpson Pogeava and Director National Traffic Mr Willie Foufaka.

SICCI said discussions focused on two priority areas, traffic congestion in Honiara City and security arrangements surrounding yesterday’s Motion of No Confidence sitting in Parliament, affecting the private sector and the wider public.

Both parties acknowledged that the agreement continues to provide an important platform for ongoing dialogue, cooperation, and information sharing between the private sector and law enforcement authorities.

SICCI said the engagement marks a significant step in activating that platform to address real-time concerns affecting businesses and residents.

SICCI raised concerns regarding the increasing impact of traffic congestion on business operations, productivity, staff movement, and rising operational costs, particularly fuel usage.

The Chamber emphasised the importance of stronger coordination and enforcement around traffic bottlenecks, roadside parking, jaywalking, and traffic flow management within Honiara City.

RSIPF, in response, acknowledged the ongoing challenges, particularly along the Central to East Honiara corridor during the current road works near the Honiara Central Market and SSEC areas.

RSIPF assured SICCI that police visibility and traffic presence will continue to be strengthened to support smoother traffic movement and minimise disruptions to businesses and the public.

RSIPF confirmed that traffic monitoring and management measures will continue to be enhanced throughout the road works period, which is expected to continue until July 2026.

Deputy Commissioner Mr Simpson Pogeava acknowledged the importance of the existing MOU between SICCI and RSIPF, noting that it continues to provide an important platform for ongoing dialogue, cooperation, and information sharing between the private sector and law enforcement authorities.

SICCI appreciates the timely engagement with RSIPF and will continue to engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, Honiara City Council, and RSIPF, on broader traffic management concerns in the coming weeks.

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Solomon Power celebrates mothers in the workplace

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Solomon Power Authority has joined in celebrating Mother’s Day by recognising the strength, resilience, and dedication of mothers across its workforce.

This company highlighted the important role women play in balancing professional responsibilities with family life, a statement from the Solomon Power Authority yesterday said.

One of the women honoured was Natalie Kairi, board secretary of Solomon Power, who has served the organisation since 2010.

Alongside her demanding career, she has raised five children and supported eight grandchildren. Mrs Kairi credited her success to the strong support system provided by her family and her husband’s family, whose help allowed her to pursue professional growth with confidence.

She expressed gratitude to Solomon Power for trusting her as both a professional and a mother, saying that contributing meaningfully to the organisation while raising a family has been deeply significant.

Mrs. Kairi believes motherhood extends beyond the household, emphasising compassion, kindness, and generosity toward others.

She advised mothers to treat family with kindness, as they are often the ones who remain constant through life’s challenges.

Solomon Power extends warm wishes to all mothers within the organisation, acknowledging their contributions and praising their compassion, strength, and commitment both at home and in their careers.

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Road relief underway in Honiara

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has stepped up emergency road works following recent heavy rains that damaged key routes across the city.

Local contractors have been mobilised to carry out grading, resurfacing, drainage clean-ups, and cold-patching, a statement from MID yesterday said.

These short-term measures are designed to keep traffic flowing and ensure safety while larger rehabilitation projects are being finalised.

The relief programme has been divided into 20 high-traffic zones across East, Central, and West Honiara, the statement said.

MID Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara thanks the public for their patience, urging motorists to drive carefully and follow temporary traffic signs.

He noted that while budget challenges remain, the ministry is focusing on the most critical roads first.

Meanwhile, to ease congestion along Mendana Avenue — where major upgrades are underway under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project — the Road Transport Board Taskforce has introduced traffic control measures to reduce peak-hour delays.

“Road users must adhere to diversions and cooperate with officers on-site as this project nears completion,” Mr. Qaqara said.

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Friends turn compassion into action for cyclone-hit Sasamunga

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

What began as a friendship formed during high school years has now become a mission of compassion and support for women and girls affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila in Sasamunga, North Choiseul.

Mary (right), Alice (center) and Anna (left) sending items onto Pelican Express 1 at Honiara Wharf, Photo-Supplied

For four close friends, Anna Grace Aitorea, Goretti Pala, Alice A. Hou and Mary A. Inasimae, the devastation caused by the cyclone was more than just another disaster story. It was personal.

When Cyclone Maila struck parts of Choiseul and Western Province, Goretti Pala was in her home village of Sasamunga, witnessing firsthand the destruction left behind.

Through phone calls and conversations with her friends in Honiara, she shared the struggles faced by families, especially women and girls who were in urgent need of basic sanitary and hygiene supplies.

Moved by the situation, the group quickly came together with one goal: to provide assistance where it was needed most.

Rather than focusing only on food and general relief items, the friends decided to support a need they believed was often overlooked during emergencies: dignity and hygiene support for women and girls.

An appeal for donations was launched among friends, work colleagues and family members. The response, they said, was overwhelming.

Within a short time, the group raised a total of $6,340, enabling them to purchase 10 cartons of sanitary pads, three bales of washing powder and clothing essentials for women and girls in the affected community.

Gorettie Pala with the High School Girls with the School Principal staff of Sasamuga High School who joyfully received the Items, Photo- Supplied

The supplies were shipped to Sasamunga on May 1st aboard the MV Pelican Express 1 and later handed over to staff at Sasamunga Hospital and Sasamunga High School.

Items handed over by Gorettie Pala and MPA Ward 5 Hon. Florence to Nurse in charge and staff at Sasamuga Hospital. Sasamuga Community is within Ward 5, Photo-Supplied
Items handed over by Gorettie Pala School Principal of Sasamuga High School and Home Economics Teacher of Sasamuga High School, Photo-Supplied

Recipients included the nurse in charge at the hospital, the school principal, the home economics teacher and female students at the school.

For the group, the initiative was not only about delivering supplies, but also about restoring dignity, comfort and hope to women and girls recovering from the disaster.

The success of the relief effort has now inspired the organisers to continue helping other affected communities across Western Province.

They say what started as a small act of friendship has grown into a wider commitment to support vulnerable communities during difficult times.

The group also acknowledged the many individuals and supporters who contributed financially to help make the project possible.

“We wish to extend our deepest gratitude to those who opened their hearts and pockets to make this possible. Your kindness has provided dignity and relief to many. Our sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to: Mary A Inasimae, Alice A Hou, Anna G. Aitorea, Maslyn Tauvave, Mariselo Asupeu, Amos Ngaingeri, Christina Tefekome, Lavinia J Fineanganofo, Ronnie Raraihuru, Dr. Elizabeth Wore, Rose Karoa, Muriel Takamae, Etter Asanao, Josephine Pitakere, Roger Dezilwa, Don Fakarii, Mariselo Asupeu, Selwyn Luiramo, Jennifer Wate, Dairus Korasi, Deborah E. Aitorea, Gabriel Riotarau, Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s Association.

“Together, we are making a difference,” the organisers said in a message of thanks to donors and supporters.

In response, the nurse in charge of Sasamunga hospital said it’s a timely donation for mothers who are admitted, because accessing stores to buy such supplies is still a challenge due to physical access and economic challenges

The principal of Sasamunga Community High School is also very grateful for this small donation, as it will help their female students.

Photos: Supplied

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