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Court acquits police officer of bribery charge

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A gavel rests on sounding block next to a brass scale of justice in front of a long row of law books on a desk in a law office. Photographed with a very shallow depth of field.

BY ROMINAH FAKA

THE magistrate court acquitted one of two police officers accused of bribery due to insufficient evidence on Friday, May 23.

Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa granted the prosecution’s application to withdraw the bribery charge against Gravis Afuga, acquitting him of the charge.

Prosecution made the application to withdraw the charge under section 190 (2)(b) (i) of the Criminal Procedural Code to acquit Afuga due to insufficient evidence.

This leaves Allen Noni facing two counts of bribery.

Trial period for this matter was set for June 23-27.

Friday’s appearance was also for an interim mention for Allen Noni’s matter.

Both prosecution and defence told court they had no issues to raise.

Noni’s matter will return to court on July 15 for the next interim mention date.

Noni was charged with two counts of bribery contrary to section 122 (a) of the Penal Code, with section 21 (a) of the Penal Code.

On November 8, 2024 an investigation of stolen gold ashes was in progress.

Prosecution alleged that Noni contacted the General Police Station leading investigator of the gold case and allegedly bribed him with a sum of $10,000 in return for the investigator to leave out the investigation file of accused Max Gura regarding the gold ashes.

This meeting between defendant Noni and the leading investigator at Town Ground was witnessed by two other officers.

On November 12, 2024, the Central Police Station leading investigator received another call from defendant Noni.

It was alleged during the conversation between the leading investigator and Noni, Noni held into his bag and bribed the leading investigator again with another $20,000.

The investigator went back to the Central Police Station and updated their supervisor about what Noni had done and recorded the money as exhibits.

Later Noni was arrested and charged with bribery.

Jeremy Oiofa from Office of Director of Public Prosecution is Prosecuting and Donation Houa from the Public Solicitor Office act for defendants Noni.

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UNDP provides agriculture training for women market vendors in Kwara’ae

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

A group of 37 women market vendors from Busurata and Gwailiki communities in Central and West Kwara’ae constituencies of Malaita province, have benefited from a four-day agriculture training on post-harvest management and pest and disease control.

A statement from Malaita Issues says the training was supported by UNDP through its Market for Change (M4C) project in partnership with Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock,  supported by Auki Market Vendors Association and Auki Town Council.

The training aimed to enhance productivity, promote sustainable farming practices and empower women economically and was held in Central Kwara’ae.

Participants attended the training ranged from 24 to 69 years of age and have varying market experience with some having sold produce for over 30 years.

Despite this, the statement added that only 22% kept farm records, while many haven’t been  exposed to structured agricultural training before. Most earned between SBD 10,000 and 20,000 annually, though incomes ranged from SBD 1,000 to 50,000.

The training covered essential farming techniques to reduce produce damage, maintain food quality and manage crop diseases using locally available and organic solutions.

It also included practical diagnosis of diseased plants, hands-on learning with natural pest control methods and education on minimizing post-harvest damage.

“Learning about post-harvest techniques opened my eyes to how proper handling can improve the quality of our produce,” said one Busurata vendor. “I can’t wait to apply these practices!”

“Before the training, I didn’t know about ‘post-harvest’ practices. We used to handle our crops carelessly, which reduced our sales. Now, I understand how crucial it is to manage them properly after harvest,” another vendor said.

The project, which is currently in its second phase is a regional program operating in Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. It focuses on strengthening the socio-economic security of women vendors by supporting access to training, financial literacy and essential services.

Mr Patrick Tuimalealiifano, the Inclusive Growth Team Leader at UNDP Pacific Office, highlighted the project’s broader goal by emphasizing UNDP’s commitment to leverage strategic partnerships to empower rural market vendors.

“By integrating sustainability with economic resilience, we ensure that women entrepreneurs have the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. Topics included vegetable management, plant health, soil care and fertilizer application,” he said.

Participants recommended further support through access to tools and seeds, while many called for ongoing training to reinforce the knowledge gained.

The UNDP M4C project continues to play a critical role in promoting food security, sustainable agriculture and financial stability for women in rural communities across the Pacific.

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Mixed economic performance in April: CBSI

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BY NED GAGAHE

The Solomon Islands’ domestic economy recorded mixed outcomes in April 2025, according to the latest Monthly Economic Bulletin released by the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI).

CBSI’s monthly production index dropped by 3 points to 103, largely due to sharp decline in agriculture cash crops. Palm oil production fell by 26% to 1,862 tons, while coconut oil plunged by 43% to 334 tons.

However, growth was noted in several other sectors. Forestry rose by 11 points, mining increased by 5 points and fishing edged up by 1 point.

Round log production surged by 41% to 104,854 cubic meters, gold output increased by 27% to 8,498 ounces, and fish catch rose 8% to 1,786 tons. Copra production climbed 41% to 409 tons, while cocoa output tripled to 187 tons.

The commodity price index rose 4 points to 105.5, reflecting strong gains in key export prices. Gold jumped 8% to US$3,218 per ounce, coconut oil rose 5% to US$2,483 per ton, and round logs increased 4% to US$207 per cubic meter. Timber prices rose 2% to US$717 per cubic meter and cocoa prices edged up 1% to US$8,150 per ton. Fish prices remained unchanged at US$1,649 per ton.

On the consumer side, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell to 127.1 points in March 2025, reflecting lower prices for vegetables, betel-nut, tobacco and non-alcoholic drinks. Headline inflation eased to 2.4%, down from 3.6% in February, driven by a drop in domestic inflation. Imported inflation slightly rose to 1.7%, while core inflation held steady at 0.9%.

Meanwhile, the CBSI Monthly Price Index rose to 116.4 points in April, up from 114.5 in March, driven by higher prices for rice, electricity, and betel-nut. A 40lb bag of Solrice now costs $155.25, electricity tariffs increased to $7.09 per kWh, and betel-nut rose to $1.88 per nut.

Fuel prices dropped to $10.08 per litre, while LP gas remained unchanged at $31.86 per kilogram.

Despite challenges in agriculture, sectors like forestry, mining and fishing showed resilience, supported by firm global commodity prices. The easing of inflation also brought some relief to local consumers.

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15 nationals to receive medals on King’s Birthday

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BY NED GAGAHE

A total of 15 recipients will be honoured with medals during the King’s Birthday celebrations this Friday, 13 June, at the National Stadium in Honiara.

This was revealed by Government House in preparation for the national event.

Governor General Sir David Tiva Kapu, will officiate the Honours and Awards ceremony, which is a key highlight of the King’s Birthday celebrations.

The awards are granted based on nominations submitted to the Honours and Awards Committee, which is responsible for recommending recipients for approval by Buckingham Palace. The honours recognise long and dedicated service to the country across various sectors.

Among this year’s recipients:

  • One individual will be conferred a Knight of the British Empire (KBE)
  • One recipient will be appointed a Commander of the British Empire (CBE)
  • Three will receive the title of Officer of the British Empire (OBE)
  • Seven will be made Members of the British Empire (MBE)
  • Three others will receive the British Empire Medal (BEM) and the King’s Police Medal

The King’s Birthday is a public holiday and is considered one of the most significant national events of the year. Celebrations will begin with a police parade and marching band performance at the National Stadium, followed by a formal speech from the Governor General.

The Governor General will also preside over the pardoning of one inmate, as part of the official ceremony.

The King’s Official Birthday is traditionally celebrated in June in most Commonwealth realms, including Solomon Islands, although it does not correspond with the actual birth date of the monarch.

Since gaining Independence in 1978, the Solomon Islands has continued to observe the monarch’s official birthday in recognition of the King as Head of State, represented locally by the Governor General.

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Christafari Gospel band rocks Honiara

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BY NED GAGAHE

Hundreds of fans gathered at Kukum Field for a powerful night of praise, worship and reggae music as internationally renowned Gospel reggae band Christafari lit up the capital with their high-energy performance.

Despite the cancellation of the first show due to heavy downpour, spirits remained high and last night’s concert more than made up for the delay.

“Wow, what a night! It’s so good to see Christians freely coming together to sing, dance and worship. Most times, only secular bands visit our country. But tonight is the most beautiful night ever,” said one elated concertgoer.

The award-winning, Billboard-charting artists officially announced their return to the Solomon Islands this month, with flights finalized and equipment ready for their Melanesian outreach tour.

Christafari kicked off their regional tour in Vanuatu before heading to the Solomons, where they will minister from June 8 to June 16.

The band has confirmed performances and second concert in Honiara on June 15 and in Malaita on June 12 and 13 at the APS Field.

“We’re beyond excited to return to one of our favorite nations,” said Pastor Mark Mohr, founder and lead vocalist of Christafari.

“It’s been six years since our last visit and as we enter our 35th year of ministry, the Solomon Islands was at the top of our list. The people, the passion, the fruit—we couldn’t stay away!”

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36 candidates selected for forklift driving training

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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

A total of 36 candidates from the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) have been selected from the work-ready pool to participate in a specialized forklift driving training program.

This initiative is delivered by Hasting Deerings PNG-SI in partnership with LMU-SI and is funded through the Australian Solomon Islands Support System Program.

The training program is conducted by Hasting Deerings PNG Cat (Caterpillar) Forklift Trainer Igo Baru, who emphasized that this training represents a significant opportunity for the candidates.

“This is a great opportunity for these candidates not only to pursue skills in forklift driving overseas but also to return home with qualifications that will benefit them in the future,” he said.

Anneth Taemani, a female candidate and participant from cohort 2, expressed her gratitude towards Hasting Deerings PNG-SI for providing this valuable training.

“Massive appreciations go to those who work behind the scenes to ensure we had the opportunity for free without any financial challenges,” Taemani said.

Baru, who has extensive experience in delivering similar training in Honiara over the years, explained that the candidates are divided into six groups, each receiving a maximum of three days of training that includes both theoretical and practical sessions.

“The training is expected to conclude on June 27, depending on how quickly the candidates grasp the basic principles of forklift operation,” he added.

The candidates were selected based on specific criteria, including English comprehension skills and possession of a valid driving license.

Hasting Deering SI Manager, Matt Pacey expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, wishing the candidates the best in their training, which will resume this week at the Hasting Deerings PNG-SI compound located at the KGVI Industrial site.

Meanwhile, the first cohort of six candidates completed their training last week, while the second cohort commenced on Friday and will continue today.

Hasting Deering employs over 300 staff across five business centers throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

Their locations include Port Moresby, Lae, Kimbe, Lihir Island, Tabubil, and Honiara.

The company specializes in selling, renting and supporting Caterpillar machinery and power systems, offering unmatched parts distribution and technical expertise.

Hasting Deering is recognized as one of the largest Cat dealers in the Asia-Pacific region, with Cat (Caterpillar) forklifts being a well-regarded brand in the material handling industry.

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Red Cross Malaita supports family

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Red Cross Malaita Branch in Auki has supported a family at Fiolo village in West Kwaio, Malaita province, after they lost their house to a fire incident early last month.

In a statement from Malaita Issues, the fire is allegedly to have started from a mobile phone battery that was being charged directly from a solar panel.

When the incident happened, according to Red Cross Malaita, the owner of the house Mr Pio Mato’omae was away working in his coconut plantation.

Mr Mato’omae lost all his belongings in the incident, as the fire completely destroyed his house.

The Ward Supporting Officer for provincial ward 26, Mr Elvis Godwin brought information on his tragic incident to Red Cross Malaita office in Auki and requested emergency assistance on behalf of Mato’omae and his family.

In response, the Red Cross Malaita provided essential Non-Food Items (NFIs) to support the family’s immediate needs.

The items included a tarpaulin, shelter kit, blankets, bucket, collapsible water container, hygiene kit, kitchen set, and mosquito net.

Branch Coordinator of Red Cross Malaita Branch, Ms Elizabeth Oge handed over the relief items to Mr Godwin on behalf of Mr Mato’omae.

Godwin expressed his appreciation to Malaita Red Cross for their swift response and support, describing it as a timely intervention during a period of great hardship for the affected family.

The Red Cross Malaita Branch continues to uphold its commitment to serving communities in times of crisis.

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One inmate to be pardoned on King’s Birthday

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BY NED GAGAHE

Only one inmate will be pardoned by His Excellency Sir David Tiva Kapu, the Governor General, during the King’s Birthday celebrations this Friday.

This was confirmed by Private Secretary to Government House, Mr. Rawcliffe Ziza, during a media conference yesterday.

“There will be a pardoning ceremony during the program this Friday. Just to inform the public, only one inmate will be pardoned by the Governor General on that day, based on the recommendation from the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy,” Ziza said.

He further explained that the Prerogative of Mercy is not limited to specific types of offences.

“The pardon does not apply only to murder cases. Anyone convicted of any offence can apply. You may petition the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, and if your case is considered and approved, the Governor General can then grant a pardon,” he said.

The pardon ceremony will be part of the official program to mark the King’s Birthday public holiday.

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Australia continues to touch life of rural Solomon Islanders

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Australia through its Solomon Islands Australia Community Partnership Program (SI-ACPP) continues to support Solomon Islands with essential livelihood projects that touch the life of people in rural areas.

Recently, the SI-ACPP has funded communities in ward 29 of Central Kwara’ae constituency with two major water projects that will help thousands of people living in both the highland and coastal areas of the ward.

In a statement from Malaita Issues, the first project is a water tank and will be received by Mamalade, Aisiko, Gwairiagalu and Abetaba’a in the highlands of ward 29.

“These communities have struggled for years to get enough water, especially during dry season. The new tanks will help families collect and store rainwater; making daily life easier and help reduce water related diseases,” it said.

The statement said the second project is the Afetafa Community Water Supply Project. The project will see piping of a water system from Afetafa to Arabala.

The system will bring clean and safe water to both communities along the coast, where access to fresh water has also been a major problem.

These projects are a big step forward for Ward 29. They show how help from outside can work hand in hand with local efforts to improve lives.

Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Ward 29, Philip Kwato’o acknowledged the Australian Government for their support.

“This is a proud moment for our people,” said Kwato’o. “Clean water is one of our biggest needs. We are thankful that both of our projects were approved.”

He also reminded the communities that the projects will only succeed with local support and hard work.

“This is a partnership. The people must take part – through their labour and their time. We all have a role to play in making sure these projects are a success,” he said.

The award night for the projects was held last month and attended by MPA Kwato’o and MP for Central Kwara’ae constituency, Ricky Fuo’o.

The success of the water projects shows the power of teamwork, when international support and local efforts come together. For the people of Ward 29, clean water means more than convenience. It means better health, more dignity and a new beginning.

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Court to hear bail variation and stay application in false pretence case

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Honiara Magistrate Court is set to hear an application for a stay and a bail variation for the defendants charged with false pretence tomorrow, 11 June 2025.

During last week’s Pre-Trial Conference (PTC), defence counsel for John Clinty Kokoro informed the court that he had not yet received disclosure materials and PTC documents from the Crown.

Furthermore, he also informed the court that he intends to file a bail variation application on behalf of his client, Mr. Kokoro.

Defence counsel for the defendants, Jerry Madada Pakivai and Alosi Jonah Taka, also filed an application to stay the proceedings on behalf of his two clients. However, counsel for John Clinty Kokoro informed the court that the application will also affects his client, citing a point of law. Mr. Kwaiga stated that any ruling on the application for the two defendants should likewise apply to his client.

The matter was adjourned to tomorrow, the prosecution directed to file their responses to the stay application and the bail variation application by close of business today, 10 June 2025. The court will hear the applications and confirm the trial date during tomorrow’s proceedings.

Defendant Chief John Kokoro Clinty, Chief Alosi Jonah Taka and Jerry Madada Pakivai are jointly charged with one count of false pretence, contrary to section 306 (a) of the Penal Code, read together with section 21 of the Penal Code.

Police alleged on 12July 2022, complainant Johnny Yeh, met with defendants Chief John Kokoro Clinty, Chief Alosi Jonah Taka, and Jerry Madada Pakivai at Coral Sea Resort Hotel to discuss matters related to the development plans for Robroy Island.

The defendants informed the complainant about the latest development concerning the reconciliation process with the Volaikana Soa Tribe.

It was further alleged that the defendants informed the complainant that the reconciliation works are still in progress, as both tribes (Volaikana Soa Tribe and Volaikana Tribe) had yet to reach an agreement on royalty sharing and other important tribal matters. So, they allegedly need more time to complete the reconciliation process in the near future.

The defendant requested complainant’s continued support in their reconciliation process, emphasizing its importance to the development of Robroy Island. Upon hearing this, the complainant agreed and accepted defendants request for continuous financial support for their cause at the meeting.

On 14 of July 2022, the defendant invited the complainant to Heritage Park Hotel for a meeting. During the meeting, the defendants requested an allowance of $ 1,500 each for the seven chiefs and elders including themselves. They also attached a letter dated 13 July 2022 address to the complainant company, requesting financial assistance for reconciliation purposes. Complainant upon seeing that, was satisfied and willing to provide support.

The allegations further stated that, at that time, the complainant did not know that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) had already been made between the Volaikana Soa Tribe and New Venture on 8 July 2022.

A total of $ 10,500.00 was given to the defendants for reconciliation purposes, as requested.

The allegation also stated that the complainant gave $ 1,500 in cash to defendant Alosi Jonah and another $ 1,500 in cash to Jerry Pakivai in Honiara. The remaining $ 7,500 was deposited into defendant Kokoro personal BSP bank account on 16 July 2022 by POB, Greenland Enterprise Limited.

On 18 July 2022, the money was transferred to defendant Kokoro’s personal BSP bank account.

Police alleged that the contents of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) confirmed that Volaikana Tribe and Volaikana Soa Tribe had completed their reconciliation and both tribes agreed to allow New Venture Limited to conduct Logging Operations on Robroy Island.

The complainant was not happy with what happened and reported the matter to the Fraud Squad at Rove Police Headquarter on 13 February 2025. The defendants were subsequently arrested and charged and bailed.

Defendant Kokoro Clinty participated in a Record of Interview and denied receiving the $ 7,500. Defendant Jonah Taka, during his record of interview, admitted receiving $ 1,500 but denied meeting with the complainant at Heritage Park Hotel. Defendant Pakivai in record of interview, remained silent all through the allegation questions asked to him.

Mr. Lazarus Kwaiga from L&L Lawyers represent defendant Kokoro and Joseph Iroga of Florida International Legal Service represent Pakivai and Taka and Leonard Chite from Bridge Legal and Consultancy firm prosecuting.

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