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MINER ATTACKED

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Police arrest one over alleged damages

By EDDIE OSIFELO

GUADALCANAL police have arrested one male person in relation to the damage of Win Win Mining Investment Limited properties at Turarana on Wednesday 22 December 2021.

Police Media confirmed yesterday the suspect is in police custody while investigation continues to ascertain the facts behind the incident.

A outspoken landowner on the area, Joel Jackson confirmed that he is not aware that “landowners damaged the Win Win office on the area”.

However, Jackson said the landowners staged a road block and stoned the vehicles of the company after it failed to pay their royalties.

He said after the incident, the company agreed to solve the matter “very quickly”.

Win Win company yesterday said they “decided not to dwell on the matter because of continuous publicity against the company in the media”.

The company started the trial alluvial mining operation in July 2019.

The trial mining commenced at the Mamasa alluvial flat deposit but was later shifted upstream to the Turarana Area (Kavahambe) after very low gold recoveries (0.15g/cubic meter(cu.m)) were experienced at the Mamasa alluvial flats deposit which is well below break even levels.

After heavy floods that left the Turarana wash plant inundated in October 2019; alluvial mining operations were shifted back to the Mamasa area in November, 2019 while reconstruction of the Turarana wash plant was progressing.

Mining operations were shifted back again to the Turarana wash plant in December 2019 due to improved gold recoveries experienced there.

Up to present time only the Turarana wash plant is currently being worked.

According to the Win Win’s monthly report produced on 10th July 2021 by contracted Geologist, Collin Midobatu, the company has exported a total of 3,258.47 ounce of gold from its last 6th shipment from January to June 2021.

This is worth around $48 million (USD$6million) base on the market prize of US$1,853.00 per ounce.

The export of gold shipment came from its operation at Turarana in Central Guadalcanal.

However, the company could not make any gold shipment from July 2019 to December 2020 as stated in the monthly report released on 10th July 2021.

In December 2020, armed men dressed as police officers entered the company’s premises at Turarana and got away with one gold bar weighing 3 kilograms, one gold bar weighing 1.7 kilograms which is yet to be properly cleaned, $140,000 cash and 15 mobile phones.

Police later arrested seven men in connection to the robbery.

Win Win recently took over Solomon Islands Resources Company Limited (SIRCL), a company that has secured a tenement to do nickel mining in Isabel Province.

Under a new company called, Go Win Company, it is moving to Isabel. However, landowners there have expressed their objection to the company operating on their land.

New water supply for Nusabaruku community

Written by
Ben Bilua
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One of the stand pipes ready to serve the community

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

NUSABARUKU Community in Western Province took ownership and will benefit from water supply project funded through their constituency funds.

Last week, the community witnessed the handing over of nine stand pipes with much excitement as their plea for proper water supply has been answered.

Josephine Aituai, Chairlady of Nusabaruku Community, said her community has been struggling to bring water supply closer to their homes for over 30 years.

She adds that residents, especially women and girls, have to walk long distance to collect water – a practice Aituai described as risky for women and girls.

Aituai acknowledged Lanelle and also Member of Provincial Assembly for Gizo, John Wale for addressing the community’s long standing issue.

“Our cries have been fulfilled and we thank you for recognizing our need,” she said.

Member of Parliament for Gizo/Kolombaranga, Lanelle Tanangada, joined the community on the occasion.

One of the stand pipes ready to serve the community

She said Nusabaruku Water Supply project is one among other major projects earmarked and enlisted under the Ward Development Committee for ward 11, which is Gizo.

Tanangada stressed that an estimate of $1.2 million has been spent to complete the water supply project while sanitation project is on its way.

She told those present that the funding was secured under Solomon Islands (SIG) Water and Sanitation Budget and People’s Republic of China (PRC).

She added that the completion of the water supply project marked another milestone for Nusabaruku community who will be enjoying the service.

“I share with you all the joy this day brought to you. I believe the long distance walk to collect water will stop.

“I congratulate those who have help one way or the other in the completion of this project.

“On that note, I urge you to take ownership of the resources so that they will have long term benefit for you and your children,” she added.

It’s understood that Nusabaruku has an estimated population of around 800 people.

Frontliners to get booster doses

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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AstraZeneca vaccine. Photo by NDTV.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO 

ALL frontline workers in Honiara and Guadalcanal will be given their booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible.

This was confirmed by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare in his latest national address on December 26th Sunday 202.

“All frontliners in Honiara and Guadalcanal province will be given their booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible,” Sogavare said.

He also urged all school-aged children between 12-17 years old and pregnant in Honiara and Guadalcanal Province to go for Pfizer vaccine.

“All school-aged children between 12-17 years old and pregnant women that live in Honiara and G. Province please go for your Pfizer vaccines as soon as possible.

“The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education will advise on locations for Pfizer vaccines and when they can be accessed.

“For eligible adults that have not yet been vaccinated or not fully vaccinated, please ensure you take your vaccination immediately.

“The Ministry of Health will advise on where people in Honiara and Guadalcanal can access your vaccines.

“Please do not delay. COVID-19 is on the country now,” Sogavare said.

2 More Covid Case In Quarantine

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare

THE Prime Minister has just announced a further two cases of covid-19 at quarantine today.

This after the parents of the 10 year old earlier detected this week for the virus were also tested and found to be positive. The family arrived in the country last week from Fiji.

This brings to four the number of covid cases at quarantine. Another passenger from a flight bringing in participants from the Dubai Expo 2020 was also tested positive.

Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare earlier told local media that there is high possibility that the case from Fiji is from the delta strain of the virus and the Dubai case, the omicron which is peaking in parts of the world.

Meanwhile, all close contact of the Covid-19 patient (Dubai) who came through the Brisbane flight have all come back negative. Repeated tests will be carried out.

Suidani praises Dala community for showing unity

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Altarboys leading the processing of candidates for confirmation and His Lordship, Bishop Peter Houhou and clergies to begin the consecration mass.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

PREMIER of Malaita province, Daniel Suidani congratulates communities of Dala Roman Catholic parish for the effort rendered towards the completion of their newly consecrated church building.

Speaking after the consecration mass on Monday at Dala (South), Suidani says the successful installation of the church building came as a result of the true spirit of partnership.

Premier Daniel Suidani and team who are also part of the ceremony.

He says upon what has been heard on the project, it has been proven that unity is the key virtue portrayed by communities within Dala that led to the competition of the project.

“This is one of the disappearing virtues or qualities within communities in the province which our forefathers of this island had lived and enjoyed,” the premier said.

The newly built and consecrated Dala parish church building.

“Unity comes with collective ideas and working together and when its presence is in the community, the fruit is what we had witnessed in the consecration of this new church building,” he added.

“On that note, I wish to praise the past and present people of Dala for the wonderful church history you have that contributed one way or the other to spread Christianity in the province.

Bishop Peter Houhou apoints a candidate to receive her sacrament of comfirmation.

“Education as one would count under the church history of Dala has contributed or paved way to many elite Malaitans especially within their areas.”

According to Suidani there are people up there who will count on Dala as where they begin or have contributed to their journey of success.

Panpipers entertaining the crowd during consecration of Dala Church on Monday this week.

He says with that Dala is a model, modern community for the province and it can say with visual church infrastructure in place like Dala mission CHS.

Suidani calls on the people of Dala and its parishioners to keep on the working together and live united as one people to face challenges and success together.

PNG-SI community celebrate Christmas

Written by
Press Release
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Fiona B. Kovingre, the only female solider currently serving with the PNG contingent, cutting the Christmas cake with Ms Tahi, a member of the PNG-SI Association.

PAPUA New Guinea-Solomon Islands Community held their Christmas celebrations on December 18 at Harmock Beach, west of Honiara.

Family, friends and PNG nationals gathered at the venue to mark Christmas along with the PNG soldiers currently serving here.

High Commissioner Moses Kaul welcomed the contingents of special forces.

“I have this special pride to say today is not just an ordinary day, but our PNG Day. We welcome the presence of the PNG contingent for coming here to the Solomon Islands,” Kaul said.

PNG High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Moses Kaul addressing the event.

“This occasion is part of our recognition of you. Although you’re under busy schedule, yet you take this time to come and be part of this program, it’s very special,” he added.

“Evident fact here is because it’s Christmas season, and this occasion is to mark Christmas, it’s time to share, exchange, reflect and unite as one big happy family, so you (PNG Special Forces) you too are family here today.

Defence Advisor Craig Solomon, right, and a member of the PNG community here.

“You are here because your small brother had call on you, that’s why you are here to give a hand.

“You are already here during the time of RAMSI; you are here to reinforce that same duty.

“And to help support stabilize the unrest situation that we have been experiencing for the past following weeks here in Honiara. People and the Government of Solomon Islands are happy to have you here.

“Our deployment here has demanded our colour, representation in the process of engagement that we continue to demonstrate and this has led for us to continue to polish these Melanesian conceptions.

“It’s not that we will interfere with the line of your duty, but it’s that we will support you in any other ways as Papua New Guineans for a good and better outcome.”

Kaul also highlighted the achievements of PNG-SI Association.

Association members and their families during the party.

He said he has taken a personal pride on the association since his tenure at the beginning of this year, witnessing cooperation and dedication.

“Let me take this opportunity to acknowledge whoever who commits your time and effort, it’s your sacrifice, I must acknowledge these things.

“We are Papua New Guineans, it shows our colour, our pride and our way of doing things. We owe these to our hearts.”

Contingent commander Perou N. Dranou in response said their being at the Christmas event feels like they were just in Papua New Guinea.

“I don’t see any difference between PNG and Solomon Islands.

BBQ food being served during the occasion on the beach. Photos by Lynnissha Runa of the PNG High Commission.

“We faced similar problems just recently in Enga, Southern Islands of PNG.

“And I believe through that experience we can bring that understanding to help our Solomon Islands police to stand up strong to face these kinds of issues.

“How you (PNG Community here in Honiara) received us, we feel privilege that we will miss our Christmas away from home, but still we feel as if we are having our Christmas in Port Moresby.

“To whatever reasons that we are here for, we will try our best.

 “We assure the PNG-SI Association and the High Commission, we will work enough in our good ways, and we will try our best, together with the other fellow Pacific contingents to help achieve peace, since Solomon Islands wants us to be here a little bit longer to help the RSIPF.  

PNG-SI Association members during the Christmas Party at Lela Beach.

‘Our purpose is to give confidence back to the police and the Government of Solomon Islands.”

Fiona B. Kovingre, the only female in the contingent added:

“It’s the first time for me on an overseas mission, but I’m very comfortable among my male counterparts.

 “It’s quite challenging for me, working with some of the new people that I don’t work with, but I’m very comfortable now.

“I don’t feel different from them. It’s not a new thing for me. I’ve been in many Police operations out in the highlands and in-country.

Food being served during the Christmas party

“The only thing is that we will be missing our families this Christmas and New Year, but being part of this Christmas program, we already feel at home.”

Francis Peter of the PNG-SI Association acknowledge the presence of everyone present at the event.

More than 500 people attended the event. – Lynissha Runa of PNG High Commission

BOMB WARNING

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Bomb that was safely remove to Hells Point for render safe.

Police: keep away from all WWII devices

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

MEMBERS of the public have been warned to keep away from World War II bombs (Unexploded Ordinances or UXO) because these devices were designed to kill and destroy.

The warning came after one person died and another in critical condition last Friday.

The duo were tampering with a World War II bomb at Hells Point, east of Honiara, when it exploded.

Officer In-charge (OIC) of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Clifford Tunuki said his advice to the public is to keep away from any WWII devices.

“If anyone sees any bomb or any item that you are suspicious of; call your nearest police station or the free toll line 999,” Tunuki said.

“You are putting you life at great risk if you try to open or play with any WWII bomb,” he added.

He said from the evidence located and gathered at the scene, it indicated that the two men were tampering with the bomb, causing it to explode.

Tunuki said a hammer, screw drivers, hacksaw blades, spade and bush knives found at the scene confirmed this.

Fresh ground excavations using spades were also seen at the site.

Multiple UXOs items were lying around the incident site and others on top of the excavated soil.

He said upon arrival of the EOD team, the victims of the bomb blast were still at the incident site.

St. John Ambulance was alerted and later transported the victims to the National Referral Hospital (NRH).

“The condition of the other casualty is a matter for the health authorities to let us know,” Tunuki said.

“Our condolences to the family and relatives of the deceased for the loss of their loved one.”

 “I kindly remind us that bomb is designed for two purposes. They are designed to kill and destroy.

“Always remember that if you suspect an item that may contain something dangerous or you do not know what it is, then call the Police free toll line on phone 999 or call EOD on phone 7495215.”

More test results pending: PM

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

MORE tests results from the flights carrying the two new recorded cases are still pending, according to Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

“I have also been advised that some tests from both flights are still undergoing laboratory analysis. The Incident Controller is still waiting for some more results,” Sogavare said.

“It is my hope that we will not pick up any more positives. However, at this stage we cannot rule that possibility out,” he added.

He said that in regards to genome sequencing on the virus, the National Laboratory cannot do it.

“So it is not possible for me to inform you what variant of COVID-19 these two people have.

“However, it is likely that the infection from the passenger from Fiji is the Delta variant, and the one that came from Dubai is the Omicron variant.

“We will send the samples to Australia for identification of the COVID-19 variant that is in the country now,” Sogavare said.

Sogavare also confirmed that two new cases of COVID-19 was diagnosed at the NRH laboratory.

This has now increased the country’s COVID-19 cases diagnosed in the country to 22.

“One of these new cases is a 10-year-old boy who returned from Fiji with his family on 22nd of December.

“Because of his age, he was not vaccinated. However, the rest of his family have been fully vaccinated and have all tested negative.”

“The second case is a national that had just returned from Dubai. He was fully vaccinated with the last dose taken in July this year,” he said.

Avoid omicron affected countries: PM

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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0
Corona

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO 

ALL fully vaccinated Solomon Islanders are advised not to travel to countries affected by the omicron variant.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare issued the reminder in his national address on Sunday 26th December when speaking of measures made by the National Health Emergency Operational Center (NHEOC).

“All fully vaccinated Solomon Islanders are advised to not travel to any country affected by the Omicron variant of COVID-19, except for those that travel to remain overseas for more than two months,” he said.

“In other words, anyone who travels out of Solomon Islands to any Omicron variant affected country will not be allowed to re-enter the country for a minimum of two months, and they will only return if our borders reopen.

“Any Solomon Islander who has not been vaccinated will not be able to travel overseas because no country will allow a non-vaccinated person to enter their borders,” Sogavare said.

Police yet to conclude probe into ‘metal’ blast

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

INVESTIGATION into the October 2021 blast that killed a father and his son behind Betikama, east Honiara, is yet to be concluded.

That’s according to officer in-charge of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal division of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Inspector Clifford Tunuki.

“We are yet to conclude our findings,” Tunuki told Island Sun yesterday.

He said since investigation is currently ongoing, he will not discuss the matter further.

“Further information can only be provided when we conclude our findings,” Tunuki stated

The October blast is said to have involved a galvanised pipe believed to be a Bangalore torpedo.

Previously, police say none of the measurements taken from Japanese and US technical manuals match this particular item.

According to Tunuki the galvanized metal that caused the blast was not a munition.

He said they normally locate it but it may have been an abandoned demolition charge (which is what a Bangalore torpedo is).

“Currently we are continuing our investigations and have gone to as far as the US to try and confirm where and when this item was manufactured.

 “It may have been an improvised device manufactured as far back as World War II (WWII).

“Until we have completed our investigations there is no point in speculating.

“Investigation is ongoing and we are trying to determine the best answer to a difficult question and that takes time,” Tunuki said.

 He also said given the number of battles fought in Guadalcanal and the greater Solomon Islands there are a lot of UXOs and sometimes-raw explosives just lying around.

“If you do not know where something has come from, if it looks like it is from WWII and if it has a hidden space then it could contain explosives or energetic material.”

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